(Covington, VA) – City Manager, Krystal M. Onaitis, today announced the appointment of Christopher J. Smith, as Covington’s next Chief of Police and Director of Public Safety. Smith, a New Jersey native most recently with the City of Covington’s Police Department as Interim Chief, was hired for his experience within the department, as he has held nearly every departmental position during his 15 years of service. Smith has served has Interim Chief of Police, since February 2019, during which he worked to grow and improve various programs, such as having School Resource Officers in schools full time and Shop with a Cop. He has also served in the United States Air Force, where he served in law enforcement on law military bases. In the Air Force he met his wife, Emily, a Covington native, with whom he has three daughters – all are involved in the community. “In assessing the community and needs of public safety within the City, I am confident in Smith’s ability to lead our first responders as we move to engage our citizens and volunteers in new ways.” said City Manager. “I am excited at what Smith has to offer based on his vision and commitment to Covington, I am eager to work with him in his new official capacity.” Smith will officially start as Chief of Police and Director of Public Safety on January 1st. “I am excited to serve in this new position as I further my service to the community I call home,” said Smith. “Covington is a beautiful and historic community with much to preserve and much to offer; and I am so eager to begin.” The public is invited to attend a meet and greet followed by a public swearing-in prior to the upcoming work session scheduled for January 7th.ext here.