Reception set for new police chief

Residents of Bella Vista have the opportunity to meet the new police chief, James Graves, during a meet-and-greet reception.

The event is from 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, June 21, at Lakepoint Event Center, at 103 Marina Drive. Lakepoint is the new name of the renovated Loch Lomond Yacht Club.

Graves replaces Ken Farmer, who recently retired.

The new chief was selected in early March. He began working March 27, holding the title of incoming chief. Graves hails from the Tucson Police Department, where he serves as commander, an administrative role. Graves has 25 years of law enforcement experience. He’s been in administration since 2001, according to a news release published by the city.

In March, Mayor Peter Christie said Graves stood out from the applicants because his employment history is long but it’s also broad. He’s worked in nearly every department in the Tucson Police Department, Christie said, giving him a wide array of experiences.

Additionally, he said, Graves’ education is strong.

He has a Masters of Administration with an emphasis on leadership from Northern Arizona University, according to the press release, as well as a Bachelor of Science in public management and an Associate of Applied Science in law enforcement. He also teaches criminal justice courses at a community college.