Office of the Chief

Meet the Chief of Police

James D. Smith. Smith is a native of Potwin, KS who comes to our community with over 20-years’ experience in Law Enforcement. Most recently, Smith has worked for the Butler County Sheriff’s Office dating back to 2013. His work experience includes Police Officer/School Resource Officer for City of El Dorado from 2000-2008 where he worked as a patrol officer with assignment to the El Dorado School District as a School Resource Officer and DARE instructor. He also spent several years as the Director of School Police for the Douglass Unified School District #396. His accomplishments include writing and receiving a National Safe School Grant for safety and security improvements at the Douglass School District as well as 20-years’ service to the El Dorado United Way as President and Executive Board of Director.

To contact James please email him at jsmith@sterling-kansas.com or via phone at (620) 278-2100.

Duties 

The Chief of Police supervises and coordinates the activities of members of the police department. The Chief recommends hiring, firing, and is responsible for disciplining employees. The Chief is also in charge of budgeting and purchasing for the police department. The Chief reviews each case, creates the employee work schedule, and prepares the payroll. In additions, the Chief also maintains order, enforces laws and ordinances, and protects life and property within the city.