VAN BUREN, Ark. — A long-time law enforcement officer in Arkansas is retiring this week.
Jamie Hammond began his career at the Fort Smith Police Department (FSPD) 33 years ago. Moving up the ranks from patrolman to the narcotics unit to captain, Hammond spent 26 years at FSPD.
Seven years ago, he took on the police chief role at Van Buren Police Department (VBPD), but on July 31, Hammond will be turning in his badge and beginning a new journey: retirement.
"He has been an integral part of the Van Buren community," VBPD said on Facebook. "Chief Hammond, in addition to being our esteemed leader, strongly believed in the power of community service. He treated every employee as equals, fostering a culture of respect and collaboration within our department. His love for this community and department shone through in all aspects of his work."
The department said Hammond's legacy will continue to inspire those in Van Buren.
"We want to take this opportunity to thank Chief Hammond for his unwavering commitment to keeping our city safe and building strong relationships with all members of our community. Your legacy will continue to inspire us long after you’ve retired," VBPD said.
Hammond says he credits his family for his success.
"Having a good support from home, from my dad. From watching him, I learned how to be a cop, how to talk to people, how to treat people. My mom showed me how to treat people. My wife told me how to, you know, be compassionate, care for people, love people," Hammond says.
The chief says that he's not quite done with working just yet, and that he will begin working in the Van Buren School District this fall.
Meanwhile, Captain Jonathan Wear will become the next Chief of Police. The announcement was made official by Van Buren Mayor Joe Hurst on July 31.
“I am extremely pleased to name Jonathan Wear as our new Chief of Police," Hurst said. "He is a man of integrity, with the experience, dedication, and skills to effectively lead the department. With nearly 17 years in the Van Buren Police Department, and his heart for volunteering on numerous boards, organizations, and projects, it’s clear that Jonathan loves this community, and we are fortunate to have him."
Wear began his service with VBPD in September 2007.
“I have diligently invested my entire career with the objective of gaining leadership experience and knowledge of our profession to eventually lead our department as Chief of Police," Wear said.
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