Henderson Police Chief Ousted Amid Union Dispute and Leadership Turmoil

Henderson Police Chief Hollie Chadwick has been relieved of her duties following a three-week ultimatum to resign or face termination. This action underscores the city’s commitment to maintaining integrity within its law enforcement agencies.

The ultimatum, issued on February 13, 2025, came after a closed-door meeting where Chadwick was presented with the choice to step down or be dismissed. During this period, she was placed on administrative leave, with Deputy Chief Itzhak Henn stepping in as acting chief.

The catalyst for this development was a formal complaint filed on December 10, 2024, by the Henderson Police Supervisors Association (HPSA). The complaint accused Chadwick of engaging in “union-busting” activities and unfairly targeting HPSA President Lieutenant Charles Hedrick for his union involvement. Such allegations, if left unaddressed, could undermine the foundational principles of fair labor practices and the rights of officers to organize.

Chadwick, a 21-year veteran of the Henderson Police Department, had risen through the ranks since her start in 2002, culminating in her appointment as chief on May 1, 2023. Her tenure, however, was marred by internal disputes and allegations that ultimately led to her departure.

This incident has sparked a broader conversation about leadership stability within the Henderson Police Department, which has seen nine chiefs in the past 25 years. Such frequent turnovers can disrupt continuity and morale, impacting the department’s effectiveness in serving the community.

Residents and officials alike are now calling for greater transparency and stability in the selection and retention of future police leadership. Ensuring that those at the helm uphold the values of accountability, integrity, and respect for labor rights is paramount for fostering trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve.