Vernon Durden congratulates Beaumont Police Chief James Singletary as Jeremy Raley looks on. Photo made Friday, Jan. 5, 2024
Kim Brent/Beaumont Enterprise, Kim Brent
Beaumont Enterprise
Kim Brent, Megan Zapalac, Photojournalist, Staff writer
Beaumont's longtime police chief has announced his plans to retire from the department.
Jimmy Singletary, who's been in law enforcement for 53 years, announced his plans during a news conference on Friday afternoon.
"This decision was not made lightly, but after reflection and consideration, I believe the time has come for me to embark on a new chapter of life," he said during the conference.
His retirement will take effect on March 31, after being police chief since Sept. 2011.
Singletary said he has had mixed emotions about the decision, but upon reflection, believes it's time to start the next chapter in his life.
He plans to go to Destin Beach, Florida with his daughter Hallie, her husband and their son. He has some ideas of activities he may want to take part in upon retirement, but his main job will be babysitting his 5-year-old grandson, who he described as "a hoot."
Save Our Children founder Rev. J.D. Roberts, City Manager Kenneth Williams and Mayor Roy West were among those gathered for Chief James Singletary's retirement announcement.
"He was always there for Save Our Children, no matter what his schedule was," Roberts said. "He made himself available for the kids, and that's what I'll miss about him."
According to Williams, Singletary has been a driving force for innovative programs within the city and has created progressive policies aimed at ensuring the well-being of citizens in Beaumont.
He's also faced multiple hurricanes and a pandemic with “courage and resilience,” while working tirelessly to help build bridges between law enforcement and the community. As a result, he has built a sense of trust and cooperation that is a center for a safe and thriving society.
"He has a way of saying things that makes some serious situations much lighter," Williams added. "We've gone through some difficult situations and the thing he would say, some things that would make us all laugh, so I'll always remember his his candid ability to make serious situations a lot better."
He noted that Singletary also has fostered a culture of teamwork within the police department, creating an environment where officers can strive for honor.
“Chief, we thank you for what you've done for the city of Beaumont,” Williams said. “Every city manager should be so lucky to have such leadership that provides ultimate stability of police department.”
Singletary said he believes the department is in good hands amid his departure, and the commitment to "excellence, integrity, and community engagement" will continue to guide the department forward, and he has "full confidence" in the leadership and everyone on the force.
"Throughout my time here, I have been inspired by the dedication and commitment of each member of this department," he said. "Our officers, staff, and community partners have demonstrated professionalism and resilience. I am immensely proud of all that we have achieved together."
Williams said the City Council already has identified what they're looking for in the next police chief. The council, police advisory committee and community overall will work together to find an individual that fits that description.
More specifically, the council is looking for someone with previous experience as a chief, chief assistant or deputy chief; who is certified in law enforcement; with good character and integrity; and who can work with diverse groups.
Singletary expressed his "deepest" gratitude to everyone who has been a part of his "incredible journey" -- for their support, hard work and shared vision for a safer community which has been a driving force for success. He said that together, they have built bridges of trust and collaboration that will live on long after his retirement.
"I say goodbye to the role of police chief, but not the relationships and memories created during my time here," Singletary said. "Thank you, Beaumont, for the privilege and honor of serving as your chief of police. May we all continue to work towards a safer and more unified community."