Buffalo Police Chief Resigns; Interim Chief Named

At last night’s city council meeting, Buffalo Mayor Brandon Kenall announced the resignation of former Buffalo Police Chief Chris Twitchel, who had been on paid administrative leave. The mayor says the city “wishes him well” in his future endeavors. Kenall then announced the appointment of Duane Hamilton as interim police chief, saying he is “excited that Duane has accepted the challenge of moving our department forward.” Hamilton was sworn in Friday afternoon.

Hamilton will continue in his role as executive director at Dallas County 911 full time while also assuming the interim chief duties. When asked how he would manage his time between the two responsibilities, Hamilton responded, “I’m blessed to have a full staff at 911,” later musing, “we can sleep when we're dead.”

The official press release from the City of Buffalo follows.

City of Buffalo, Missouri Announces Resignation of Police Chief Chris Twitchel

Chief Chris Twitchel notified the City that he has accepted another position; and he has resigned his position with the City of Buffalo Police Department effective March 23, 2023. Chief Twitchel has been serving with the City of Buffalo Police Department since April 2021. We wish Chief Twitchel well in his future endeavors.

The Mayor and Board of Alderman are confident the Buffalo Police Department will continue to move forward in a positive direction during this transition and they anticipate naming an interim chief in the near future.