After over two decades in law enforcement, Clinton Police Chief Anthony Davis has decided to retire from the position he has loved and held for the past five years.
His retirement became effective Thursday, Oct. 16.
“It has been an honor to serve the city of Clinton and work alongside so many dedicated individuals,” Davis said in an interview Wednesday.
“Throughout my career, I’ve believed strongly in the importance of colloboration — between law enforcement, the media and the citizens we serve.
“While I may be stepping away from the badge, my dedication to a better tomorrow will remain.”
Assistant Police Chief Adrian Mathews will take the leadership baton from Davis, serving as acting police chief.
Clinton Mayor Lew Starling said Wednesday that a decision on an interim chief and/or an assessment center will be forthcoming.
The mayor said Davis had provided great leadership during his tenure as police chief.
“The city of Clinton has greatly benefitted from Chief Davis’ leadership over the past five years and his unwavering dedication to public service to the city of Clinton for the past 22 years. I can still remember when I swore him in back in 2003.
“He certainly has left his mark on the department, and the benefits will still be reaped in the years to come. I wish him and his family well in all their future endeavors.”
While the move appears to be sudden, Davis said it was something that had been on his mind for a while.
“I’m a firm believer that our stories are written already, that God does that. Sometimes you’ve got to sit still and listen to what God is trying to tell us, and then, have the faith to follow his lead.”
And listen, and follow, Davis did. His father Ronald’s recent health issues and the chief’s knowledge that he had the years in to retire were two deciding factors, but not the only ones, the 47-year-0ld pointed out.
“To be honest, I’ve always had a passion to do other things. I’m helping to take care of my dad, and other opportunities have afford themselves to me. So the timing was just right.”
Davis said transitionally speaking it was also a good time. “I really believe the department is on firm ground, very stable right now. It was a good time for someone else to take the reins and move the department into the future.
“I am very proud of what we have built here. I couldn’t have done it without my officers and staff, the support of the city and the community. “
See the full, exclusive interview with Davis in Saturday’s Sampson Independent.