Farmington Hills honors Police Chief Jeff King at retirement ceremony

Farmington Hills officials on Dec. 9 honored Police Chief Jeff King at a council meeting marking his retirement after about 25–30 years with the department.

Councilmember Bill Dwyer, who said he hired King as a cadet in 1995, presented a city proclamation and credited King with advancing the department’s professionalism through accreditation and training. State Representatives Samantha Spethlock and Kelly Green read a legislative proclamation that listed department initiatives led by King, including expansion of the school‑liaison program and the departmentwide adoption of body-worn cameras.

Several council members and former colleagues praised King for prioritizing community engagement and officer training. Speakers noted that under King the department implemented a mental‑health crisis response training program and recruited and diversified staff while maintaining hiring standards. King, in his remarks, credited earlier leaders and the department’s personnel, thanked the city and said he was proud of the work accomplished.

Public commenters and council members also urged continuity in leadership; some speakers recommended promoting from within the department when selecting a successor. The council presented both city and state proclamations and took a moment for photographs; no formal council action was required for the recognition.

The council meeting packet and the Dec. 9 public record include the proclamations and staff remarks; the council indicated its appreciation and wished King well as he moves to his next role.