The following was released on Friday by the city of Watkinsville:
James Arwood to Serve as Watkinsville Police Chief
WATKINSVILLE, Nov. 15, 2024 — The City of Watkinsville today announced that James Arwood will be its next police chief. Arwood, a 22-year public safety veteran serving 17-years with the city of Jefferson, most recently as Assistant Police Chief, replaces Chief Courtney Gale, who resigned in July.
“I am happy to welcome James Arwood as our new Police Chief. With a proven track record of organizational management, dedication to community safety, and commitment to fostering trust between law enforcement and the community, James is the ideal choice to lead our Police department into the future. We are confident that under his leadership, our police force will continue to serve with integrity, professionalism, and compassion, ensuring a safe and strong community for all,” said City Manager Sharyn Dickerson.
Arwood has served as the Assistant Police Chief for the city of Jefferson since 2018. He began his career with Jefferson as a Patrol Officer before moving on to becoming a detective, a training coordinator/state certification manager, lieutenant/patrol commander, and finally assistant police chief. He holds two master’s degrees, one in Criminal Justice and the other in Public Safety Administration. He has also completed the certified public manager program through the University of Georgia’s Carl Vinson Institute.
Chief Arwood’s experience with Jefferson includes serving a population of 13,233 and overseeing 30 sworn officers and two civilians. He has developed and implemented community programs and written policies and procedures to keep up with changes in public safety laws and statutes.
“The City Council and I look forward to having James Arwood as our police chief,” said Mayor Brian Brodrick. “He brings extensive experience in law enforcement and a good understanding of the unique needs of smaller communities like ours.”
Arwood will begin serving on December 2. Sergeant Kyle Hibler will continue to lead the department until then.