Farmington Hills Welcomes New Interim Police Chief
This week, Farmington Hills officially welcomed Assistant Police Chief John Piggott to the acting role of Police Chief, stepping into the position at a pivotal moment for the city. The move comes as the longtime chief, Jeff King, is set to retire. A celebration in honor of King took place on December 16, providing an opportunity for family, friends, and colleagues to recount the many milestones of his impressive career spanning nearly three decades.
Farewell to a Beloved Leader
King’s association with the Farmington Hills Police Department began back in 1995. Over the years, he made his mark on the community, earning respect from his peers and deep appreciation from residents. The retirement celebration was filled with heartfelt stories that highlighted King’s commitment and dedication to the safety and well-being of Farmington Hills.
A Grateful Transition
Gary Mekjian, the City Manager, expressed his gratitude towards Piggott for stepping into this important interim role. “We are indeed lucky to have someone with his caliber and experience,” said Mekjian. “He is an experienced law enforcement leader who is respected among his peers. I’m confident that he will uphold the department’s high standards while we take time to consider who will lead the department in the future.”
John Piggott: A Career Filled with Accomplishments
Piggott is no stranger to the Farmington Hills Police Department. He started his journey there back in 1996 as a police cadet and has since climbed the ladder, showcasing his dedication and skills along the way. His experience spans various critical areas including administration, investigations, operations, and traffic safety. He also served as a school liaison officer and was promoted to assistant chief in July 2021.
Throughout his career, Piggott has earned an impressive total of 46 citations and awards for his exceptional police work. On the educational front, he boasts a master’s degree in business administration from Madonna University, and he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Grand Valley State University. His commitment to continually honing his skills is evident — he is a graduate of specialized programs like the Police Executives’ and New Chiefs’ School through the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police, and the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command.
A Bright Future Ahead
As the city embarks on the journey to find a permanent replacement for Chief King, they are casting a wide net to attract qualified candidates. City leaders are looking for individuals with robust experience in leadership and strategic planning. Additionally, they are keen on candidates who have demonstrated success in community engagement and the implementation of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Above all, adaptability to modern law enforcement challenges is a must.
The goal is to select a new chief by spring 2025, ensuring that the Farmington Hills Police Department continues to meet the evolving needs of the community it serves.
Farmington Hills is poised for a smooth transition from one respected leader to another, and with John Piggott at the helm for now, the city can rest assured that their police department remains in capable hands as they look toward a bright and safe future.
