Corning to welcome new police chief as Bassett retires

Eduardo Curiel, currently a sergeant at the Corning Police Department, will be the department's new police chief, succeeding Chief Craig Bassett. Curiel was introduced as the soon-to-be chief at the Corning City Council meeting on the evening of May 26.

Corning police cars are pictured. (George Johnston/Daily News)

Bassett's retirement comes after 30 years of service with the Corning Police Department. The department stated in a Wednesday Facebook post, "Over the years, Chief Bassett has led with integrity, dedication, and a genuine commitment to the people of Corning."

Bassett was named as the police chief on January 1, 2024. after the then-police chief, Jeremiah Fears, was fired the night before Thanksgiving in 2023. Bassett had been serving the Corning Police Department as a Sergeant at the time of his hiring as police chief.

Curiel will be filling the position held by Bassett starting on June 7. The Corning PD stated that Curiel has worked closely with Bassett for many years, and he is prepared to continue the department's "strong leadership, values, and commitment."

The department stated Bassett's leadership will leave a lasting impact on the department and he will be missed.

The city began accepting applications for the position of police chief in March and continued through April 3 of this year.

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