Farmington Hills Welcomes New Interim Police Chief
This week in Farmington Hills, a notable shakeup happened in the local police department as Assistant Police Chief John Piggott stepped into the role of interim police chief. This transition comes on the heels of the departure of longtime chief Jeff King, who is retiring after a remarkable career in law enforcement. With heartfelt celebrations held on December 16, friends, family, and colleagues gathered to share cherished memories and reflect on King’s impactful tenure.
A Fond Farewell
Chief Jeff King joined the Farmington Hills Police Department back in 1995. It was a time when the city was evolving, and a dedicated leader like him was necessary to guide it through the years. During the recent farewell event, many expressed their admiration for King, telling stories that highlighted not just his professional achievements but also his character and passion for community service. As City Manager Gary Mekjian pointed out, “It’s a significant moment for our community as we celebrate the dedication and contribution of Chief King.”
A Safe Pair of Hands
As the city looks for a new police chief, it is comforting to know that Assistant Chief Piggott is there to keep things running smoothly. Mekjian expressed his gratitude towards Piggott for stepping up during this critical time, stating, “He is an experienced law enforcement leader who is respected among his peers. I’m confident that he will uphold the department’s high standards while we take time to consider who will lead the department in the future.” And with Piggott’s extensive background, it appears that the police department is in safe hands.
Piggott’s Journey
John Piggott’s journey in law enforcement began in 1996 when he was hired as a police cadet. Over the years, Piggott has embodied the spirit of hard work and dedication, rising through the ranks in various roles, including administration, investigations, and traffic safety. He even served as a school liaison officer, truly engaging with the community. His commitment culminated in his promotion to assistant chief in July 2021.
Throughout his career, Piggott has received an impressive 46 citations and awards for exceptional police work. It’s a testament to his skills and dedication to the community. On top of his extensive experience, he holds a master’s degree in business administration from Madonna University and a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Grand Valley State University. Piggott also boasts an associate degree from Oakland Community College. He further honed his leadership skills by attending the Police Executives’ and New Chiefs’ School through the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police, as well as the Northwestern University School of Police Staff & Command.
A Bright Future Ahead
While Piggott leads the department in the interim, the search for a new chief is underway, and the city is casting a wide net for qualified candidates. The city seeks someone with experience in leadership and strategic planning, demonstrated success in community engagement, and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Additionally, adaptability to modern law enforcement challenges is key in today’s ever-evolving landscape.
City leaders have set a goal to select a new chief by spring 2025. With the strength of the current leadership and the hopeful eyes on the future, Farmington Hills is committed to maintaining a police department that not only serves but also strengthens the community. As residents, we can feel secure knowing that the right leadership decisions are being made for the safety and well-being of all.
