Farmington Hills Appoints Interim Police Chief Following Longtime Leader’s Retirement

Farmington Hills Welcomes New Interim Police Chief

Farmington Hills is buzzing with a mix of nostalgia and anticipation this week as the city transitions into a new chapter of leadership in its police department. Assistant Police Chief John Piggott has stepped up to take on the role of interim police chief following the retirement of longtime chief Jeff King. The community recently honored King’s remarkable 28-year tenure, during which he has left an indelible mark on the department and the city.

A Fond Farewell

The city celebrated Chief King’s retirement on December 16. Friends, family, and colleagues gathered to share their favorite memories, reflecting on a career that began in 1995. At the heart of the event was a genuine appreciation for King’s dedication and service. City Manager Gary Mekjian expressed heartfelt gratitude, noting that King’s legacy will continue to inspire the department.

Mekjian said, “We are fortunate to have John Piggott stepping in during this transition. As an experienced law enforcement leader, he commands the respect of his peers and is well-equipped to maintain the department’s high standards.”

Meet the Interim Chief

John Piggott isn’t a newcomer to the Farmington Hills Police Department; in fact, he has been a dedicated member since 1996 when he started as a police cadet. Over the years, he has shown impressive growth, rising through the ranks and accumulating valuable experience in various aspects of law enforcement, from administration and investigations to operations and traffic safety. Piggott even served as a school liaison officer, helping bridge connections between law enforcement and the education system.

Piggott’s impressive credentials include 46 citations and awards for exceptional police work, which speaks volumes about his commitment to the community. He holds a master’s degree in business administration from Madonna University, a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Grand Valley State University, and an associate degree from Oakland Community College. Furthermore, he has completed the Police Executives’ and New Chiefs’ School through the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police, along with the Northwestern University School of Police Staff & Command.

Searching for the Next Leader

As the city embraces this change in leadership, it is also on the hunt for a new police chief who will guide the department into the future. The selection process is designed to find someone with a strong background in leadership and strategic planning, along with a proven track record in community engagement and advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.

City leaders are particularly focused on identifying a candidate capable of adapting to modern law enforcement challenges, reflecting the ever-evolving landscape of community safety. The city aims to have a new chief selected by spring 2025.

Looking Ahead

With Piggott at the helm in the interim, the police department is set to continue its commitment to serving the community while the search progresses. Both city officials and residents alike have expressed confidence in Piggott’s leadership and are optimistic about the future of law enforcement in Farmington Hills.

As the city looks ahead, there’s a collective hope that with the right leadership, the department will keep growing stronger and continue fostering trust, transparency, and safety in the community.