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Libby Police Chief to Retire

Sgt. Terry Watson will replace Chief James Smith when he leaves on Aug. 31

By Justin Franz

Libby Police Chief James Smith is retiring after 11 years in the department.

Smith, 56, made the announcement late last month although many within the city say he had made the decision to leave more than a year ago. Sgt. Terry Watson will replace Smith when he leaves on Aug. 31.

“It’s just time to leave,” Smith said. “I’ve been in law enforcement for 25 years and I’m ready to step back and do something else.”

Smith is a native of Nevada and worked in law enforcement there before coming to Libby 11 years ago. He was appointed chief in 2009. Smith said he plans on moving back to Nevada to spend more time with his family. He said he does not plan to retire entirely, but he will most likely leave law enforcement for good.

Libby Mayor Doug Roll said Smith’s departure is a big loss for the community.

“He’ll be sorely missed,” Roll said. “He’s been an outstanding chief of police and he’s well respected in the community.”

Smith said he is especially proud of the team of officers that he has put together in the last few years. He said he has been very selective in who he hires and just about all of his officers have prior law enforcement experience.

“We have a nice professional department here and I’m going to miss the guys and my time here immensely, but it is time to go and take a break,” Smith said.