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Smyrna Police Department Hires Assistant Police Chiefs



Jason Irvin, Smyrna Police Department Police Chief, is pleased to announce Jeff Dwyer and John Liehr as assistant police chiefs for Smyrna. They both assume their roles on July 22, 2023. The assistant police chief positions were created to serve as capacity support for the police chief as a result of growth. “Our goal is to ensure that the citizens continue to receive the service and support they deserve. Jeff and John are both long-time, valued employees and will seamlessly transition to these elevated positions” explained Irvin. Town Manager, Brian D. Hercules, remarked, “We are fortunate to have long-time, valued employees willing to serve leadership roles in public safety.”

Patrol Captain Jeff Dwyer began his law enforcement career in the United States Air Force, Security Police, where he served from 1983 until 1989. He returned home to Smyrna following his military service, joining the Smyrna Police Department in 1990. He worked his way through the ranks of the department, serving as a patrol officer, Corporal in the Patrol Division, and Sergeant in the Patrol Division. In 1997, Dwyer was promoted to Patrol Captain. While serving with Smyrna Police Department, Captain Dwyer continued to further his education. He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice Administration from Columbia Southern University, and graduated from the FBI National Academy, Session 204, in 2001. “Jeff has worked diligently with me from my first day to make sure my transition into the Department was as smooth as possible and he has supported my vision for our future. Jeff's work ethic and willingness to always help made him my choice to lead Uniform Services as Assistant Chief.” stated Irvin.

Administrative Captain John Liehr has served with the Smyrna Police Department since 1994. He worked his way through the ranks of the department, serving as a patrol officer, a Field Training Officer, a Corporal in the Patrol Division, a Sergeant in the Patrol Division, a detective, Detective Sergeant of Narcotics, and Detective Sergeant of the Detective Division. He holds an Associate's Degree in Criminal Justice from Middle Tennessee State University, a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice from St. Leo University, and a Master's Degree in Criminal Justice from Nova Southeastern University. Irvin noted, “I'm excited to promote John Liehr to the position of Assistant Chief of Police over Investigative and Administrative Services.”

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