SELMA – Joined by his family, friends, and colleagues, J.A. “Jamie” Hughes was officially sworn in as the new Selma Police Chief, Tuesday night. Chief Hughes replaces Billy Thomas who retired last month. Thomas was also on hand for the ceremony.
Mayor Byron McAllister administered the Oath of Office. The mayor thanked Hughes for accepting the role, and also former Chief Thomas. “He left you with an amazing police department. I think it’s the best police department in Johnston County and I expect it to get better.”
Hughes thanked the mayor and council for their trust in his leadership. “It’s not about me. The position is bigger than that. It’s about the officers and the citizens of this town.” He reminded everyone that the men and women who wear the uniform are not perfect and make mistakes, but they put their lives on the line everyday for their community. He asked citizens to whisper a prayer each night when they go to bed for the police officers and their safety.
“I look forward to serving as your police chief,” Chief Hughes said after his oath.
Chief Hughes is a lifelong resident of Johnston County and a 1994 graduate of Princeton High School. He started his law enforcement career with the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office in 1999. In 2001, he began work with the Selma Police Department as a patrol officer.
In 2005, Hughes was promoted to Sergeant, the same year he received the Officer of the Year Award. From 2005 to 2008, he was the K-9 handler for the agency. In 2011, he was promoted to Detective Sergeant, and in 2018, Captain of Investigations. In 2022, he achieved the rank of Major.
Chief Hughes and his wife, Lisa, have two children, Logan and Anna. In his spare time he enjoys hunting, fishing, and spending time with his family.
