John Chambers Selected as Chief of Police for Chattanooga
Friday, August 30, 2024
Chattanooga has a new Chief of Police. Mayor Tim Kelly announced today that **John Chambers**, a veteran of the Chattanooga Police Department and currently serving as Assistant Chief, will step into this important role. This decision follows a lengthy selection process that lasted two months and attracted a mix of internal and external candidates from across the nation.
The Mayor stated that Chambers was chosen because he embodies essential values important to the police department, such as community engagement, neighborhood policing, and gun violence prevention. “I am proud to announce that I have selected CPD’s own John Chambers as Chattanooga’s next Chief of Police,” Mayor Kelly said. He emphasized that Chambers showed exceptional skill in each step of the interview process and received unanimous support from the Mayor’s Advisory Committee.
Chambers expressed his gratitude for this new opportunity, saying, “I’m honored and humbled to assume this new position. I am excited to continue serving alongside the men and women of CPD as we carry out our commitment to partner with the community, keep all of our residents safe, and serve.” He further emphasized the need to work together with Chattanooga’s diverse communities to address past challenges and move forward.
Chattanooga City Council Public Safety Chairwoman Raquetta Dotley highlighted the importance of community involvement in the selection process. Dotley praised Mayor Kelly’s decision, stating, “I am confident that John Chambers will bring the leadership, expertise, and innovative approach needed to advance our police department’s goals and serve our community well.”
The enthusiasm surrounding Chambers has been echoed by former police chiefs and community leaders. Retired Chief David Roddy described him as an “incredible person” and a focused leader. He added, “I have zero doubt John is the right person… to lead the Chattanooga Police Department.” Another former chief, Fred Fletcher, also expressed confidence, stating, “I know I would follow him anywhere.”
Many community members and leaders expressed their support for Chambers’ leadership potential. **Glenn Scruggs**, a retired CPD Executive Chief, stated, “I am confident that under his leadership, the CPD will continue to make significant strides in community policing and public safety.” DeWana (Dee) Holmes, a local entrepreneur, noted Chambers’ ability to uplift spirits within the department, saying, “When he enters a room, he brings light that commands attention, but also brings unity.”
Hamilton County Sheriff Austin Garrett underscored the police department’s need for a leader like Chambers, emphasizing the importance of hard work and vision to navigate challenges ahead. He said, “I firmly believe John Chambers is that leader and is fully prepared.”
Chattanooga artist and community leader Olga de Klein also shared her optimism. She remarked on Chambers’ empathy and balance between technical policing and people-centered approaches, trusting that he would make an excellent Chief of Police.
The community’s involvement in Chambers’ selection was a key consideration. Advisory Committee member Vivian Lozano noted, “John’s love for the city of Chattanooga really came through, and his understanding of the challenges our community and department faces are invaluable.”
As a committed member of the Chattanooga community, Chambers has a strong foundation to lead. City leaders believe he is equipped to usher the police department into its next chapter with renewed energy and focus on community relationships.
Chambers will officially take over as Chief of Police pending confirmation by the Chattanooga City Council, which is expected to take place in September. With a unanimous backing from his colleagues and trust from community leaders, expectations are high for his tenure as the new Chief of Police.
