Town appoints new police chief

Election Day is just around the corner, but some other big positions are also being filled. Saint Anthony Police Chief James Smith is retiring and his replacement is Sgt. Terry Harris. He was appointed last week and said he is honored.

“I hope I’m up for the challenge and I’m excited,” said Harris.

With more than 16 years of experience, Smith believes Harris is just the man for the job.

“I think my successor will be an adequate, capable person, who knows law enforcement and knows what he’s doing. He’ll do a great job,” said Smith.

Smith came with some fresh ideas, and Harris said he believes they have worked well so far.

“Right now I don’t see any immediate changes that I’ll be making. I think we’re on a good track and I just hope to continue us down the path we’re headed,” said Harris.

When Smith first arrived from Los Angeles, he had some big changes for this quaint town. Those ideas led to curfews for teens and a what he said is a better management of crime. He even put more security cameras in areas where teens like to hang out. He said it’s an effort to make sure kids stay out of trouble, which is something Harris has had a lot of experience with.

“There’s always drug issues and stuff like that, but you deal with them,” said Harris

No matter what the case is, Harris believes he’s more than ready.

“If any new challenges come, I’ll be able to deal with them,” he said.

Harris was appointed last week, but he will not take on his new responsibilities until January.

Although ready for retirement, Smith said he is happy to have served the community and did his best to make sure law enforcement was fair.