Jacksonville Police Department swears in new police chief today

JACKSONVILLE, NC (WITN) – A police department in Eastern Carolina swore in its new police chief Monday afternoon.

The Jacksonville Police Department announced that Virginia native Jarad Phelps will be officially sworn in as police chief today at 3 p.m.

The 28-year police veteran previously served as deputy police chief for Prince William County, Virginia.

Jarad Phelps started his new job in early July and will receive an annual salary of $158,000.

Jacksonville officials say Mike Yaniero will continue as public safety director and oversee both the police and fire departments. Yaniero, who was previously police chief, was appointed public safety director in 2012 and served as both police chief and public safety director.

“In addition to extensive law enforcement experience, Mr. Phelps brings a deeper level of knowledge gained through his time at the FBI National Academy and a variety of other training and courses,” Yaniero said in an earlier statement. “We are confident he is the right person to work alongside our current team of senior leaders, officers, fire and rescue personnel, telecommunications personnel and support staff.”

Phelps holds a master’s degree in public administration from George Mason University and a bachelor’s degree in political science from James Madison University. He is also a graduate of the FBI National Academy.

Today’s ceremony will take place at the Jacksonville Police Department.

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