AMARILLO, TX - The City of Amarillo has extended a conditional offer to Irving Assistant Police Chief Thomas Hover to serve as its next Chief of Police, concluding a months-long national search during a period of leadership transition and public scrutiny.
City officials announced that Hover was selected from three finalists following interviews and input from community members, department personnel, and multiple review panels.
A Pivotal Appointment for Amarillo PD
The appointment comes at a critical time for the Amarillo Police Department, which has been navigating internal morale concerns, leadership turnover, and increased public calls for accountability and transparency. City leaders have emphasized the importance of appointing a permanent chief to stabilize the department, rebuild trust, and set long-term priorities as the city continues to grow.
City Manager Grayson Path said the decision reflected a careful and deliberate process.
“This appointment reflects a careful evaluation of each finalist’s qualifications, leadership style, and fit for our organization,” Path said. “Input from the community, department staff, and our interview panels provided valuable perspective and affirmed that Mr. Hover’s leadership approach and experience are well suited to the current and future needs of the Amarillo Police Department.”
Finalists and Selection Process
Hover was selected from a group of three finalists that included Interim Police Chief Jimmy Johnson, a 36-year veteran of the Amarillo Police Department, and Greg Stevens, executive director of the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement and an Amarillo native. Hover was the only finalist without prior professional or personal ties to Amarillo.
Hover’s Career in Irving
Thomas Hover began his law enforcement career with the Irving Police Department on December 15, 2003. Over more than two decades, he rose through the ranks and was sworn in as Assistant Chief on April 28, 2023.
During his 20-plus years with IPD, Hover served in multiple divisions, including Patrol, Special Operations, Detention and Evidence, Community Services, and the DWI Unit.
He holds a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Texas State University and a master’s degree in Criminal Justice from Tarleton State University. His advanced training includes graduation from the 54th School of Executive Leadership at The Center for American and International Law, the 91st Leadership Command College at the Bill Blackwood Law Enforcement Management Institute of Texas, and the 287th session of the FBI National Academy.
Farewell Ceremony in Irving
The Irving Police Department held a ceremony honoring Hover’s service as he prepares to take on his new role. In a statement, the department thanked him for more than 22 years of dedication.
“It’s not a goodbye—it’s a see you in the Panhandle,” the department said. “His leadership, integrity, and commitment to our community have made a lasting impact on the Irving Police Department and the City of Irving.”
Irving Police Chief Derick Miller personally thanked Hover and accepted his Irving Police badge as part of the transition. The Irving Police Association FOP Lodge 323 also presented Hover with a keepsake award recognizing his service to the Irving community.
