Police Chief

The Police Chief directs all operations of the Hopkinsville Police Department and the Hopkinsville/Christian County Emergency Communications Center. The Chief forecasts annual and long-term funding needs for a budget exceeding $12 million and leads short- and long-range planning for all department functions. Key responsibilities include supervising more than 70 police officers, 20 emergency dispatchers, and 20 support staff; establishing policies, procedures, rules, regulations, and organizational structures consistent with applicable guidelines and restrictions; and ensuring community-oriented policing services are provided at every level.

Requires a high school diploma; a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice management or a related field is preferred. Candidates must have 12 years of law enforcement experience, including five years in a supervisory role and at least two years of equivalent experience as a police captain or higher. Candidates must also have graduated from the FBI National Academy, the Southern Police Institute, or a similar command-level training program. Must be a graduate from the Kentucky Law Enforcement Academy (KLEC) or an equivalent academy recognized by KLEC. A valid driver’s license is required.

Excellent benefits include health, dental, vision, & life insurance. 15 vacation days, 12 sick days, and 8 floating holidays per year are offered. Federal student loan repayment program available for eligible employees. Certified KY Police credentialing receives an additional $4,300 annual state stipend. Compensation based on experience and education.

Maintain all Patrol Officer qualifications and abilities required by Kentucky Law Enforcement Council (KLEC), City of Hopkinsville, and City of Hopkinsville Police Department.

Possess thorough knowledge of modern policing principles, practices, and techniques of crime, accident investigation, and police administration.

 Conduct internal investigations of employees in a fair and equitable manner.

 Perform well under stress.

Command officers and plan, assign, and supervise the work of others in a manner conducive to achieve full performance and establish or maintain high morale.

Decision making and planning skills to identify equipment, manpower and budget requirements to accomplish crime prevention and crime resolution.

Ability to enforce law, rules, and regulations firmly, tactfully, and impartially when dealing with the general public.

 Maintain confidentiality.

Management skill to recommend and administer discipline of civilian or sworn employees. 

Professional attitude when reacting to stressful situations concerning the public.

Public speaking ability to ensure general public is cognizant of the department’s capabilities and limitations is important.

Diplomatic and courteous when dealing with employees, supervisors, citizens or suspects. 

Physically capable of subduing and placing into custody anyone violating the law or wanted by law enforcement agencies.

Communicate clearly and comprehend communication of others.

Maintain credibility and integrity as a senior-level manager and instill same in subordinates.

Monitor, evaluate, and recommend department changes to respond to community needs.

Total knowledge of city geographic characteristics, road locations, and interior layout of major buildings is necessary.

Complete knowledge of all applicable federal, state, and local law as well as department policies and procedures.

Work with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies by requesting their assistance on investigations or assisting in their investigations whenever possible.

Carry out assigned programs and projects assigned by the Mayor or City Council.

Ability to use standard communication equipment such as telephone and wireless radio in a courteous and professional manner.

Perform other related duties as required or assigned.

Graduate from an accredited high school or have GED. Bachelor's Degree in criminal justice management or related field preferred.

Have twelve years’ law enforcement experience including five years’ supervisory experience (with two years of experience as a Police Captain or equivalent). An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Graduate from the FBI National Academy, the Southern Police Institute, or other similar command-level training program.

Graduate from the Kentucky Law Enforcement Academy or equivalent that is recognized by the Kentucky Law Enforcement Council.  

Successfully complete the City of Hopkinsville Firearms Certification Program.

Complete 40 hours of KLEC-approved continuing education annually.

Possess a valid motor vehicle operator license.

College-level courses in management, business, or criminology. 

Computer skills and use of prescribed software programs. 

Ability to quickly assess any situation.                                                                            

Use of deadly force may be required in the performance of the duty of this position. 

The employee’s duties require frequent exposure to a high degree of danger or peril and a high degree of physical conditioning. 

The employee’s duties are not primarily clerical or administrative. Be able to use hands, arms, and fingers; lift and/or move up to 25 lbs. 

The City of Hopkinsville is an Equal Opportunity Employer