Rome's new police chief gives insight into how he will lead the department: Exclusive

Kevin James, Rome’s new police chief, started his job less than a week ago. After joining the Rome Police Department in 2004 he was promoted to the rank of detective in 2014, detective division commander in 2020, and later the rank of captain in 2022.

Stepping into his new role marked the official retirement of David J. Collins.

“With a new administration comes new ideas and visions,” said Collins, “I believe this timing is perfect. As Mayor Lanigan steps into office it’s fitting to have a new police chief to help push his agenda forward.”

At the inauguration ceremony, James disclosed the two primary issues on his docket were combatting the station-wide staffing shortage and community distrust.

James spoke exclusively to the Observer Dispatch about how he plans to lead the Rome Police Department toward excellence.

Here’s what he had to say:

What's your management philosophy?

Collins, former police chief, described his leadership as one "rooted in discipline." He noted that as a paramilitary organization, the department best serves from this structure of command.

On the other hand, James outlined his administration’s core principles as collaboration, accountability, training, crime management, and recruitment/retention.

“My management philosophy is fairly simple – manage as a team,” he said. “I will never claim to have all the answers therefore I will need input from others. You get respect by giving respect to those you manage through competence, consistency, and active listening.”

How would you handle a situation in which an officer is accused of misconduct or excessive force?

Since 2013, the Black Lives Matter movement has led to a national reconsideration of racism and policing. Flash forward to 2020, the killing of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer sparked mass protests across the country.

With attention placed on local police departments, James reiterated that priorities have stayed consistent; ethical conduct.

“As with any accusation, each incident will be fully and fairly investigated,” emphasized James. “If there is evidence of wrongdoing the appropriate action will be taken against the officer. If the officer is exonerated, and the complainant was found to have lied, the accuser will face criminal charges when applicable."

How do you plan to promote diversity and inclusion within the department?

In October 2023 the Rome Police Department passed its fifth New York State Law Enforcement Agency assessment. The department has now maintained its status as an Accredited Police Agency for 20 years.

The current accreditation will continue through 2028.

According to the NYS Division of Criminal Services (DCS) participating accredited agencies are expected to implement all mandated standards – including the promotion of diversity within the department.

James noted that while the department is already pretty diverse, he will continue working to hire and promote the most qualified people for the job. In response to the national staffing shortage, his administration plans to establish a budget dedicated to job advertisements.

“We have always encouraged and welcomed all members of the community to join our department,” he added.

What are some of the latest technologies being incorporated into local policing?

The New York State Association of Counties (NYSAC) winter meeting debriefed the potential impact that artificial intelligence (AI) might have on local governments. But what about local police departments?

The newest technology that the Rome Police Department has implemented is ALPR pole cameras. Throughout the past year, they’ve been scattered across the city.

Automated license plate readers (ALPRs) are computer-controlled camera systems typically mounted on highway overpasses, street poles, or attached to police squad cars.

“These cameras capture video of passing vehicles and, using AI technology, analyze the vehicle and license plates,” explained James. “This allows us to search for vehicles based on partial or full license plates, and vehicle color or type. We are always looking for technology that will aid us in preventing and solving crimes within our city.”

This article originally appeared on Observer-Dispatch: Rome Police Chief Kevin James one-on-one interview