The City of Bedford has named Jeff Williams as the new Chief of Police after an extensive search and interview process. Selected from 49 well-qualified applicants from across the country, Chief Williams comes to Bedford from the City of North Richland Hills, where he has served for more than 23 years, most recently in the role of Divisional Commander of Technical Services. He first day with the City of Bedford will be Monday, March 29.
"On behalf of myself, the City Council, and everyone at City Hall, I would like to welcome Chief Jeff Williams to the Bedford family,” said Bedford Mayor Michael Boyter. “I remain excited about the progress that BPD has made over the past few months as we strive to raise our standards and give our residents the level of service they deserve."
Chief Williams started his law enforcement career with the City of Bedford in 1996 as a patrol officer. Then, in 1998, he was hired by North Richland Hills where he climbed the ranks and has experience overseeing all aspects of the Police Department including the criminal investigations, uniformed services, and administrative services divisions.
“Over the past 25 years, I have had the opportunity to work with the Bedford Police Department employees on numerous occasions and have always been impressed by their enthusiasm and desire to serve the community,” said Chief Williams. “Having started my policing career in Bedford, I know first-hand, our citizens were always thankful for the Police Department’s diligent work in keeping the community safe. When the opportunity to return emerged, it seemed too good to be true. I am thrilled for the opportunity to become more active in the community and lead the exceptional officers and employees of BPD.”
Chief Williams holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Dallas Baptist University and a TCOLE Master Police Officer certification. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy, ILEA School of Police Supervision, and Police Executive Research Forum Senior Management Institute.
“Jeff Williams is a highly-respected law enforcement leader whose background in community policing will be a tremendous asset to our incredible City,” said City Manager Jimmy Stathatos. “It was clear his experience, integrity, and friendly-demeanor was the right choice for Bedford to take BPD to the next level.”
In December, the City partnered with recruiting-firm Strategic Government Resources to begin the search for the new Police Chief upon the retirement of Chief Jeff Gibson. Chief Gary Johnson, a 39-year law enforcement veteran and retired City of Roanoke Police Chief, will continue to serve as Interim Chief of Police until Chief Williams’ start date.