The Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe recently hired longtime law enforcement officer James Beck as its new police chief.
Beck will manage operations of the police department and natural resources enforcement, a S’Klallam news release states. He comes to the tribe with decades of experience in law enforcement, including several leadership positions in federal and local agencies.
Born and raised in Oklahoma, Beck is a member of the Cherokee Nation and has spent most of his career serving in Indian country. Most recently he served as sheriff of Delaware County in Jay, OK, the only non-tribal law enforcement position he’s held.
“This position came at the right time,” Beck said. “It’s a pretty area, and I was looking for a change. We’re here to serve the community; they are always a priority above all else. I truly believe that.”
Last month, Beck held the first of what he hopes will be regular public meetings to help develop trust and partnerships within the community, per the release. He said there is work to be done among community members, especially youth, who have negative impressions of police generally.
“In some cases, the only interaction someone will have with the police is when something bad has happened,” Beck said. “It’s important that there’s a more positive impression.”
Beck is exploring options, including a youth program and citizen police academy to educate youth about the role of law enforcement.
“There’s not a lot of crime (on the reservation), but by being more visible, we can act as a deterrent,” Beck said.