by Shawn Nowlin
No more speculation as the City of Roanoke has officially announced who the next police chief will be.
Scott Booth, who has worked in law enforcement for nearly three decades, currently serves as Danville’s Police Chief. Over his career, he served as the Chief of Police for the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, a Sergeant in the U.S. Army and an Officer for the City of Richmond, among other roles.
In just three years, 2017-20, Danville went from having the highest per capita violent crime rate to a 35-year low. While disappointed that he is leaving, Danville’s Mayor Alonzo Jones and City Manager Ken Larking both have publicly thanked Booth for his impact on the city.
Approximately $24,700 was paid to GovHR by the city to aid with the national search for a new police chief. Many are optimistic that Booth’s leadership and track record are exactly what Roanoke needs at this moment.
“We are excited about our new chief. After an extensive national search and doing our due diligence, we are confident that we have the right person for this job,” Mayor Lea said.
As chief, Booth will manage resources, coordinate plans and direct activities of the department, among many other things. A community meet and greet recently took place for residents to get to know Booth.
“I believe that what works is community policing and creating an environment that is reflective of Roanoke,” Booth said in a press release. “Focused policing, specifically on violent offenders, and accountability at all levels of the organization is what is needed to reduce crime and build trust.”
While it undoubtedly is a noble profession, many feel that law enforcement as a whole needs significant changes. “I’ve had some negative experiences with a few cops over the years, but that has nothing to do with Chief Booth. I, like the vast majority of people, are willing to give him an opportunity for trust to be earned,” Corey Coleman said.
In addition to a bachelor’s degree in human resources management and leadership studies from the University of Richmond, Booth also holds a master’s degree in criminal justice from Virginia Commonwealth University and a doctorate in criminal justice from Pennsylvania Western University.
Oct. 31 will be Booth’s final day as Danville’s Police Chief. From there, the necessary steps will be taken to make his Roanoke transition as seamless as possible.
Booth’s predecessor, Sam Roman, now serves as an Assistant City Manager. Until Booth is officially sworn in, interim Chief Jerry Stokes will run the department.
