Altoona Police Chief Jesse James gives final farewells

Thursday, January 3, 2019
Shannon Hoyt | WQOW

Altoona (WQOW) - The Altoona police chief is trading in his badge and gun, to serve in the Wisconsin Assembly.

After 17 years in law enforcement, Jesse James is starting a new chapter in his life, representing the 68th Assembly District. While he said his farewells on Thursday, he said he's excited to serve in the legislature, but saying goodbye to his team is emotional.

"Today, I purposely haven't been wearing my badge and gun, just to see how it's going to feel," James said. "Just because you get so used to that image. You get so used to that duty here everyday. Today, I guess I am trying to break myself away from it. We'll see how it goes. There may be an opportunity where I may pursue a part-time position somewhere."

Lt. Dave Livingston will be the interim chief until January 31. They hope the new chief can start about a month later.

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