Former Police Chief Joins Farmington

FARMINGTON —A former police chief for West Fork Police Department was recently hired to fill a new position in the Farmington Police Department.

John Collins, 45, started Feb. 11 as a patrol officer. Collins is already certified as a law enforcement officer and has about 15 years of experience. He worked for the Washington County Sheriff’s Office for 10 years and West Fork Police Department for five years.

He also worked in Iraq as a security contractor for Halliburton.

Collins said he resigned after serving 1½ years as West Fork’s police chief to go back into the work field. When Farmington advertised its new position, Collins said he decided to apply for the job.

“I missed it,” Collins said. “Once it’s in your blood, it’s in your blood.”

Collins said he enjoys law enforcement work and serving the public.

Farmington City Council approved a request last year to add another police officer to the department. Farmington now has 12 people on staff, including Chief Brian Hubbard and desk Sgt. Billie Virgin, according to Capt. Mike Wilbanks.

Virgin said that the extra position has allow the department to increase its coverage during busier shifts.

“The extra position has definitely helped our coverage,” Virgin said. “It will be a benefit all the way around.”

LYNN KUTTER ENTERPRISE-LEADER Farmington Police Capt. Mike Wilbanks, left, and officer John Collins stand next to a new drop-off box for unwanted or expired medication, such as prescriptions and over-thecounter drugs. The box is located in the lobby of City Hall and will be...