LAWTON – Lawton Police Chief James Smith is the new president of the Oklahoma Association of Chiefs of Police.
Smith was named president on July 7 at the OACP’s annual conference in Durant, according to a news release from City Manager Michael Cleghorn’s office. Smith had served as the group’s vice president for several years before moving into his new role.
“As association president, my goal is to continue to advance the science and art of law enforcement throughout the state,” Smith said. “I want to continue increasing the professionalism in policing by staying on the cutting edge of education, training, best practices and developing solid policies.”
The OACP’s goal is to enhance professionalism in policing by law enforcement administrators and their administrative support personnel, something Executive Director Steve Whitlock believes Smith will do well, according to the news release.
“We are excited for Chief Smith to continue the goal of fostering strong ethical standards and a commitment of professional conduct in law enforcement throughout the state,” Whitlock said. “Congratulations to Chief Smith on his selection as the OACP president, and the city of Lawton should be honored for this prestigious recognition.”
OACP was established in 1984 and currently has more than 300 members in over 180 agencies and organizations across the state. The president’s term is one year and will expire at the OACP annual conference in 2023.