Amarillo Names 3 Police Chief Finalists: Who Are They?

It's been a long process as it should be, but it seems we're getting closer to finding the next Police Chief for the Amarillo Police Department. It's understandably taken some time, and to see how thorough the process has been is refreshing.

The position is now down to three finalists, and they're all very accomplished individuals with plenty of real-world experience. The three finalists are Thomas Hover, Jimmy Johnson, and Greg Stevens. There will be a Meet the Finalists event on December 4th that you can attend, but let's get to know a bit about the three right now.

Thomas Hover

Our first finalist is Thomas Hover. He has over 25 years of experience within the Irving Police Department. Right now, he oversees the field operations and specialized bureaus. He has been a part of many different operations and departments in his over two decades of experience.

He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy as well as the Law Enforcement Management Institute of Texas Leadership Command College, so he is loaded with the education and real-time experience needed in a police chief.

Jimmy Johnson

He may share a name with the famous NASCAR driver, but he's not him. Johnson IS, however, a very experienced candidate who would do a lot for the city. He has nearly 40 years of experience to his name in municipal law enforcement and has been in a very wide range of roles, including operational and command roles.

He has also helped develop mentorship programs, improve recruiting, and put in place accountability systems that enhance performance and public trust. He is also a graduate of the FBI National Academy and has advanced certifications from the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement.

Greg Stevens

Stevens is not just the most accomplished person on this list, but he is one of Texas's most accomplished law enforcement leaders, period. He has more than 37 years of experience in civilian and military service. He also has ties to the region as he was the Chief of Police in Lubbock at one point, as well as in Rockport. Having that West Texas tie is a huge plus.

He is currently leading the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement and is a retired Naval Intelligence Officer, as well as a graduate of the FBI National Academy. His organizational leadership, ability to modernize policing operations, and transparency are renowned. He's also had a profound effect on professional standards and accountability across law enforcement in Texas as a whole.