THATCHER — Following a brief executive session Monday, the Thatcher Town Council unanimously appointed Sgt. Everett Cauthen to serve as the interim Chief of Police, following the retirement of Shaffen Woods.
“Shaffen did a great job guiding this department,” Cauthen said. “There are a few small things we’re going to tweak but, overall, nothing major.”
Cauthen, the brother of Pima Police Chief Diane Cauthen, said he intends to seek the position on a permanent basis. He’s been with Thatcher Police since 1995.
The Council also honored Woods for his almost 25 years on the Thatcher Police Force, including more than 11 years as Chief, presenting him with a plaque of appreciation.
– David Bell Photo/Gila Valley Central
Woods said the Council made the correct decision in selecting Cauthen.
“He’s been here longer than me. I worked my whole career with him, so I feel really comfortable with him taking over the day-to-day,” Woods said. “And, of course, I’ll be here until April, working the evenings and nights to help him with the transition.”
During the days, Woods will be working his new job — chief of security for Freeport-McMoRan’s Safford mining operation.
