There was a changing of the guard in Oregon City Wednesday, Aug 17. The City bid farewell to Chief Jim Band as he wrapped up a nearly 24 year career with the Oregon City Police Department. Following that ceremony, his replacement, who also has a long history with the community, was sworn in.

Band has served with the OCPD for more than 23 years, with the last ten as the department’s chief. In that time he is credited with instituting numerous programs and policies that have helped the department.

“It’s really not fair that everyone gives me credit for all of this. I couldn’t have accomplished all of that if it weren’t for the team here,” he said.

During his tenure Band instituted health and wellness programs for officers that has been emulated by some other departments in the region, as has the department’s approach with the homeless community.

Perhaps the most visible impact of his time as Chief is the construction of the Libke Public Safety Building. Voters approved funding for the building by more than 80% in 2017, a moment that Band has considered a high point in his career.

Replacing Band is Shaun Davis who has also been with the Oregon City Police Department since 1998. In that time he’s served in nearly every capacity the department has, earning him ample experience. He was sworn in by Mayor Denyse McGriff who said while she will miss Chief Band, she’s excited to see Chief Davis in the new role.

“I am absolutely thrilled to continue to work with Shaun Davis in his new role as Oregon City’s Chief of Police. Chief Davis brings a high-level of professionalism and community-first orientation to his job. I look forward to collaborating with Chief Davis in continuing to make Oregon City a great place to live and work,” she said.

A D V E R T I S E M E N T

A D V E R T I S E M E N T

Chief Davis said one of his priorities will be to continue to focus on the recruitment and retention of quality officers.

“We have the very best officers and support staff who are dedicated to serving our great community and who take pride in everything they do. This is one of the pillars of how we get the support from the community. We have a department that exemplifies the best principles in public safety and service,” he said.

Chief Davis said he will continue to focus on creating positive relationships with the community and providing quality service to residents.

“To have the support of the community, we can’t just be good, we must build relationships. The community must know us. We can’t just show up for a call. We will continue to foster an environment where all individuals feel comfortable approaching us and engaging with our officers.”

While many city police agencies around the country and in Portland are dealing with staff shortages recently, Oregon City says that they have had success in recruiting officers to the department. Oregon City Officials say that is a testament to the department’s positive reputation.


--Ben Fisher

Post Date: 2023-08-19 18:23:14

Last Update: 2023-08-19 18:41:12