The City of Amarillo has named three finalists for the next chief of the Amarillo Police Department.
The finalists are (listed alphabetically by last name) Thomas Hover, Jimmy Johnson and Greg Stevens. (Brief bios are included).
The candidates were selected after an extensive national search led by Public Sector Search & Consulting, the only recruiting firm in the United States that focuses solely on police executive recruitment.
City leaders adopted a search process which included a heavy emphasis on public feedback and input as far as the attributes the Amarillo community values in its chief of police. The process included:
- City staff and the Amarillo City Council identified and approved Public Sector Search & Consulting in July. The council appointed an interim police chief earlier in March.
- The city conducted an online community survey from August 11 to August 29.
- Residents were invited to a community engagement session at City Hall on August 25.
- Staff, elected officials and city management participated in listening sessions in late August.
COA is inviting the public to meet the finalists at a Community Open House/Meet the Finalists event on December 4 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in Room 3400 (council chambers) at city hall.
Meet the Finalists
Thomas Hover
Assistant Chief Thomas Hover has over 25 years of progressive experience with the Irving Police Department, currently overseeing field operations and specialized bureaus. He has led critical initiatives in community policing, officer wellness and crisis intervention and has served as incident commander during major public events and emergencies. Hover is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and the Law Enforcement Management Institute of Texas Leadership Command College. He is recognized for strategic leadership that balances data-driven policing with meaningful community engagement.
Jimmy Johnson
Interim APD Chief Jimmy Johnson has more than 37 years of experience in municipal law enforcement, serving in a wide range of operational and command roles. His leadership has focused on community engagement, professional standards and evidence-based policing. Johnson has been instrumental in developing officer mentorship programs, improving recruitment processes, and implementing accountability systems to enhance performance and public trust. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and holds a Master Peace Officer License.
Greg Stevens
Executive Director Gregory Stevens is one of Texas’ most accomplished law enforcement leaders, with more than 37 years of combined experience in civilian and military service. He previously served as Chief of Police in both Lubbock and Rockport and currently leads the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE). A retired Naval Intelligence Officer and FBI National Academy graduate, Stevens is renowned for his organizational leadership, transparency, and ability to modernize policing operations while maintaining strong community relationships. His work has had statewide impact on professional standards and accountability across law enforcement.
