By CHIEF STEPHAN M. HUDSON
Prince William County Police
I am truly humbled and honored to be chosen to serve as just the third Police Chief of the Prince William County Police Department. As a career-long member of this Department, I am thankful and proud to have worked alongside dedicated officers and civilians who strive to provide exceptional service to the citizens of Prince William County.
I want to thank Lieutenant Colonel Barry Barnard for his leadership as the Acting Chief since Chief Deane retired on September 1, 2012. Over the past months, LTC Barnard has wisely guided this Department, with steadfast devotion to the well-being of the organization and to each of us. I am pleased to be making this transition with his unwavering support.
It was a privilege to work for Chief Deane for his entire 24 year tenure as Chief of Police, as well as for our first Police Chief, George T. Owens. Both men set an exemplary standard for our Department. Chief Owens founded this Department in 1970, and was responsible for laying its foundation of principled service and commitment. Chief Deane continued this tradition, earning international recognition for integrity and high standards. Because of their tireless and dedicated leadership, this Department is widely renowned for its reputation of excellence.
I have a deep personal commitment to this County, its government, and its citizens. I’ve lived in Prince William County since 1976 and graduated from Gar-Field High School. My wife works for the Prince William County School system, and we were blessed to have our children and now grandchildren here. I am very proud of this community and am privileged to now serve as its Chief of Police.
I was hired as a police officer with this Department in 1982 and have enjoyed many varied experiences since then.
Most recently, I served as Assistant Chief of the Operations Division and the Criminal Investigations Division. I also served as the commander of Special Operations, Internal Affairs, and the Vice/Narcotics Bureau. I had the pleasure of supervising units in CID, the Academy, and Patrol. As an officer and detective for over thirteen years, I served on the SWAT team, as an Academy Instructor, a plain clothes Detective, and a Patrol Officer. Each assignment increased my understanding of the diverse activities of our job. Every day brings progress and innovation. I will do my utmost to build on the Department’s many great strengths and help prepare our next generation of leaders for the complex challenges of the future.
I believe strongly in open communication, teamwork, creativity, and accountability to the citizens we serve. I cannot fully express how honored I am to have the opportunity to work alongside all of the members of our department as we serve the citizens of Prince William County together.
