NKyTribune staff
Chris Fangman, a 15-year veteran of law enforcement with the Newport Police Department, was sworn in as Newport’s Police Chief by Mayor Jerry Peluso during Monday’s City Commissioner’s meeting.
Fangman, the department’s Patrol Division Commander, is replacing former Police Chief Tom Collins, who is retiring after a law enforcement career of more than 40 years. Collins has served as Newport Police Chief since 2012.
“I am very impressed with Chris and feel confident that he is the right choice to lead the Department into the future,” said Newport Mayor Jerry Peluso.
“I could not be more appreciative of the City of Newport’s confidence in me to serve as Chief of Police,” Fangman said. “I am truly dedicated to all of the citizens of Newport and have thoroughly enjoyed serving them. I look forward to continuing to serve in the capacity of Chief of Police. The community support from the residents of Newport is second to none and is a driving force of our cohesion.”
“Chris Fangman is an experienced, smart, professional, dedicated and upstanding police officer who will do a tremendous job overseeing the Newport Police Department,” said Newport City Manager Tom Fromme, who served as police chief before becoming city manager. “The Newport Police Department as well as the entire city will be well-served by Chief Fangman.”
Fromme said three internal candidates were interviewed and that “all three were very good. We couldn’t go wrong because our candidates were outstanding. Chris really stood out and will do a tremendous job in following Chief Collins.”
Fangman began his career in 2004 with the Newport Police Department, rising through the ranks to lieutenant. He has also served as former SWAT Team Commander, Neighborhood Liaison Officer – where he attended neighborhood meetings and events – and currently serves as Patrol Division Commander.
Fangman said that Chief Collins has kept the police department “ahead of the curve”.
“With that being said, there are plans already in place to maintain the course,” Fangman said. “Our priority is safety, and with the future developments on the horizon, we will strive to continue to stay ahead of the curve and be prepared to meet resident and business owner expectations.
“During my career I have enjoyed working for a city that has never stopped progressing,” he said. “I have a sense that my career has grown with the city, allowing for a metaphorical finger on the pulse of the excitement and development. Newport has a consistent core of leaders that put forth a concerted effort to keep Newport progressing at an incredible rate. I look forward to being part of that core and to carry the ultimate responsibility of keeping our residents and businesses safe.”
Fangman said one of the greatest challenges is recruiting quality people into law enforcement.
“Society as a whole is being exposed to — via body camera and YouTube videos — to what police officers experience on a daily basis,” Fangman said. “Due to society’s exposure, there is a nationwide decrease in quality police applicants. It seems as though it boils down to people think twice before applying for a career that has a such potential danger and adversity.
“As for a Newport specific challenge,” he said, “I would say just being as prepared as possible for our potential massive residential, commercial, and entertainment developments.”
From The City of Newport and staff reports