Rick Dobrow named assistant Spokane police chief

The Spokane Police Department has officially named 20-year veteran of the force Rick Dobrow as its new Assistant Chief. Dobrow replaces Craig Meidl, who stepped down last month citing a wish to return to patrol work. Spokane Police Chief Frank Straub named Dobrow an early favorite for the post. Dobrow began work as an officer in Stockton, Calif., in the early 1980s before joining the Spokane Police Department in 1994. He has served as the director of training for the Spokane Police Academy and was promoted from his position as captain of professional standards and training, according to a department news release.