The Davenport Police Department has promoted Captain Jason Smith to the rank of major. The 27-year veteran of the department, will serve as assistant police chief effective Sunday, July 5.
In a news release Friday, June 26, the department said Mr. Smith’s promotion follows the appointment of Major Greg Behning to police chief.
Major Smith, a Davenport native, joined the Davenport Police Department in 1999.
Throughout his career, he has served in every division of the department. He has held bureau commander roles in Criminal Investigations, Crime Prevention, Traffic Safety, and
Patrol. Additionally, he previously served as Internal Affairs officer, Patrol Division commander, and most recently as Services Division commander. Mr. Smith also spent 10 years on the Department’s Emergency Services Team, serving numerous high‐risk search warrants and operations, and retiring as the Sniper Team Leader.
During his tenure, the newly promoted major has been instrumental in advancing key department initiatives. He has championed partnerships with Davenport Community Schools and the School Resource Officer Program; supported the Davenport Public Safety Chaplain Program; and helped lead the department’s Crime Analysis Unit from its inception. As the agency dignitary liaison to the U.S. Secret Service, and special events coordinator, he has served as incident commander for numerous major events and contributed to Davenport’s National Public Safety Partnership while promoting the integration of technology in policing.
Throughout his career he has received multiple awards including a commendation bar, several excellent duty bars and unit citations, a 25-year good conduct medal, and the physical fitness award. He is also a past recipient of the Noon Optimist Sergeant Kevin Marxen Respect for Law Award.
Mr. Smith is a criminal justice graduate of St. Ambrose University where he received a Bachelor of Arts. He also holds a Master of Arts in Theology from the Augustine Institute. In addition, he is a graduate of the State of Illinois’ law enforcement leadership training program, the Police Executive Role in the 21st Century.
“Major Smith’s dedication to serving others resonates in every aspect of his life. His leadership and commitment to the community have strengthened our organization and we are excited about the future with him in this new role,” Chief Greg Behning said in the release. “We congratulate him on this promotion and look forward to the positive impact he will continue to make.”
Mr. Smith also expressed his appreciation for the opportunity and his excitement for the work ahead. “I am deeply thankful and honored for the opportunity to further serve the same community that has given so much to me,” the major said. “I am excited to support the dedicated men and women who proudly wear the badge, as well as the professional staff whose commitment is essential to our success. I look forward to building upon the Davenport Police Department’s strong traditions partnering with the community and continuing our commitment to excellence in public service.”
