New Police Chief for City of Neosho

Neosho has a new Chief of Police.

Peter Russell began his role on Wednesday, October 8, bringing with him 17 years of law enforcement experience and a strong commitment to community-based policing.

He previously worked for the Neosho Police Department from 2000 to 2011 – serving as a patrol sergeant and instructing officers on implicit bias and bias-based profiling.

Chief Russell will oversee all operations of the department, including patrol, investigations, training, and community outreach initiatives.

‘We are excited to welcome Chief Russell to our leadership team. His proven leadership and passion for public safety make him the right choice to guide our department,’ said City Manager David Kennedy.

Chief Russell previously served with New Hampshire Police Standards and Training serving as Major, supervising two captains, six lieutenants, and up to 120 law enforcement officers, where he led the development and implementation of a statewide police ethics program for all officers. In addition, Chief Russell created and taught courses on constitutional law for law enforcement, emphasizing the role of police as guardians of civil liberties.

To further enhance officer decision- making, Chief Russell redesigned state-wide skills and scenario-based practical exercises, strengthening New Hampshire’s law enforcement commitment to effective and ethical policing.

Chief Russell graduated Summa Cum Laude from Missouri Southern State University with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, is POST certified in Missouri and New Hampshire, and earned\ his juris doctorate from Loyola University – New Orleans, where he previously held his Louisiana Bar license.

“I look forward to working with our community and continuing to strengthen trust, transparency, and public safety. In the first 30 days my priority will be to take inventory of the department, review our policies and procedures, and identify areas where Neosho may benefit from policing best practices. I look forward to meeting with our citizens, stakeholders, and our council members ensuring that Neosho policing remains Neosho.” said Chief Russell.

He says the Neosho Police Department will continue to uphold its mission of protecting life and property, preventing crime, and enhancing the quality of life through partnerships and professionalism.