City of Joplin names new police chief

The Joplin Globe, Mo.
Updated ·2 min read

Aug. 31—Rich Pearson has been named chief of the Joplin Police Department, city officials announced Thursday.

Pearson is currently captain of the Jefferson County Public School System Police Department in Louisville, Kentucky. He previously served 22 years in the Louisville Metro Police Department and taught in the criminal justice department of Ivy Tech Community College in Sellersburg, Indiana.

He holds master's and bachelor's degrees in justice administration from the University of Louisville. He graduated from the FBI's National Police Academy in Quantico, Virginia, and the Southern Police Institute in Louisville. He is finishing his doctorate in criminal justice at Saint Leo (Florida) University.

"During his interview, it was easy to recognize that Chief Pearson has the experience addressing many of the issues that are present, or soon will be, in our community," said City Manager Nick Edwards in a statement. "Chief Pearson highlighted new ideas and new approaches to these issues, which will help the police department improve service delivery. Additionally, Chief Pearson has dedicated himself to developing as a leader and attained some of the highest credentials available for law enforcement professionals."

Pearson will start with the Joplin Police Department on Dec. 18.

"My wife and I are excited about making Joplin our new home, and I am looking forward to meeting all my co-workers and members of the community," Pearson said in a statement. "I'm sure that together we can continue to make Joplin a safe and wonderful place to live. I plan on meeting with all community stakeholders as soon as possible after I move to town to build relationships and start new friendships."

Edwards also credited Assistant Chief Brian Lewis for his work as interim chief of the department after the retirement earlier this summer of Sloan Rowland.

"Brian has faithfully served this community during tragedy and difficult challenges. He is one of the most trustworthy leaders in the organization," Edwards said. "Brian will continue to be a strength for the organization and a valuable asset for Chief Pearson. Together, this will be a strong team that, along with all the officers, will help ensure the safety of our community and improve our services for future generations."