MPD Promotes Four to Lieutenant, Civilian employee retires

Murfreesboro Police Department (MPD) Chief Michael Bowen promotes four (4) sergeants to the rank of Lieutenant – Lieutenant Jeff Baskette, Lieutenant Melonie Roche, Lieutenant Sam Smith and Lieutenant Craig Snider.

Lieutenant James Baskette started his career with MPD in 1996. Baskette has served as a patrol officer, detective and sergeant. He received a Certificate of Completion from FBI-LEEDA and is a 2015 graduate of the Northwestern University Center for Public Safety School of Police Staff and Command.

Lieutenant Melonie Roche began working with MPD in 1999. Roche has served as a patrol officer, Field Training Officer (FTO) and a sergeant in the Patrol Division. She received a Certificate of Completion from FBI-LEEDA, attended the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) Leadership Academy and is a 2016 graduate of the Northwestern University Center for Public Safety School of Police Staff and Command.

Lieutenant Sam Smith’s career began with MPD in 2002. Smith has served as a patrol officer, sergeant. He is a 2018 graduate of the Northwestern University Center for Public Safety School of Police Staff and Command.

Lieutenant Craig Snider began his career with MPD in 1997. Snider has served as a patrol officer, member of the COPS Unit, detective and sergeant in the Office of Professional Standards. He received a Certificate of Completion from FBI-LEEDA, an Internal Affairs Institute Certification and is a 2006 graduate of the Northwestern University Center for Public Safety School of Police Staff and Command.

“We are proud of the accomplishments of each of these individuals and look forward to them serving in their new roles,” said Chief Michael Bowen.

The new Lieutenants were recognized at a promotion ceremony held Dec. 20 at MPD Headquarters.

Long-time personnel Administrative Assistant Glenna Standridge was also recognized for dedication to the department. Standridge is retiring after 22 years of working at MPD.

“I wish Glenna the best in her retirement,” Bowen said. “Her contributions to our agency are immeasurable and she will be missed by those who served alongside of her throughout her career.”