JENNINGS COUNTY — After more than 27 years of service with the North Vernon Police Department, Chief James Webster announced he plans to retire on March 27.
“It has been an absolute honor to serve the citizens of North Vernon for all these years,” Webster said. “I began working for the city as a dispatcher in April of 1993. I was later hired as a full-time officer on Jan. 1, 1994. I have worked with outstanding public safety professionals throughout my career. The men and women that serve daily in Jennings County are second-to-none, and it has been a privilege to work alongside them.”
Webster was elevated to the rank of chief on Sept. 11, 2006 by then-mayor John G. Hall. He also served under the late Harold “Soup” Campbell and current Mayor Mike Ochs.
When Webster was appointed, it was speculated he was the youngest chief to serve. Now, with more than 14 years in the position, he is the longest-tenured.
“I am very proud of the initiatives, programs, and accomplishments the police department has experienced during my time as chief,” Webster said. “Everyone at the department is absolutely dedicated to professionalism, and they have come up with great ideas of how to better serve the citizens. Being able to direct, coach, and help these officers see projects through has been a blessing.”
While Webster’s time at NVPD is ending, his career in law enforcement isn’t over.
Webster will be joining the newly-formed Columbus Regional Hospital Police Department to serve as their assistant chief/captain.
“I look forward to continuing down the path of law enforcement leadership,” Webster said. “The training and experiences I have gained in North Vernon will be critical to success in Columbus.”
Ochs has formed a selection committee, and will soon name a new chief of police.
The new chief will be officially appointed at the March 22 meeting of the North Vernon City Council and will assume all roles and responsibilities on March 28.
