McKINNEY, Texas (Aug. 5, 2014) – Last night, the McKinney City Council approved a contract to appoint David James as Interim Chief of the McKinney Police Department (MPD). James will start Aug. 5. 

“As a well-known leader in law enforcement, particularly in the DFW area, we are confident our police department will thrive under David James’ leadership as we conduct a national search for a Police Chief,” said Tom Muehlenbeck, Interim City Manager. “The MPD is full of dedicated, hard-working individuals who are committed to providing for the safety of our citizens.” 

James has more than 37 years in law enforcement service, management, supervision and training experience. He served for 21 years as a Captain in the Dallas Police Department and most recently served 15 years as the Police Chief for the City of Carrollton before his retirement in 2010. James also served as president of both the North Texas Police Chiefs Association and the Texas Police Chiefs Association (TPCA). From 2004 to 2008, he served as the first Chairman of the TPCA’s Law Enforcement Agency Best Practices Recognition Committee. 

Following retirement, James has served as Interim Police Chief in various cities around the DFW metroplex. As the Director of Law Enforcement Leadership & Management Consulting, LLC, James worked with municipal governments across Texas and with institutes providing continuing education for law enforcement. 

James holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Abilene Christian University and is a graduate of the Institute of Law Enforcement Administration’s Command and Management College and the FBI’s National Academy. James will work as Interim Police Chief while the City of McKinney conducts a nationwide search for a permanent Police Chief.