$500 reward offered for return of Prescott Valley police chief's missing gun
The town of Prescott Valley is offering a $500 reward for the return of police Chief Bryan Jarrell's missing handgun.
Jarrell left his duty weapon in a library bathroom on Nov. 9 and reported the weapon missing upon realizing it was gone four days later, according to police.
The chief hasn't spoken publicly about the incident, but the department on Tuesday issued a prepared statement to The Arizona Republic, saying, "As chief of police, I take full responsibility for my negligent actions that resulted in the misplacing of my service weapon.
"It is an uncomfortable feeling to have lost something as important as a firearm, especially for a person who has dedicated his life to serving and protecting the public."
The missing weapon is described as a black, 9-mm Glock 19 with a serial number of YHC 944.
Police said Jarrell had been at a council meeting and was changing in a public library bathroom at about 6 p.m. Nov. 9 for an "off-duty commitment in civilian clothes."
An internal investigation is currently being conducted by the police department, and Prescott Valley's town manager will decide what if any reprimand.
Police urge anyone with information to call Yavapai Silent Witness at 1-800-932-3232. Callers can remain anonymous.
"I feel badly over the loss of this service weapon," Jarrell said in the statement. "I realize that being the chief of police does not render me immune from making mistakes and I will continue to perform my duties to the high expectations that this community deserves."
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