Long-time law enforcement officer Steve Goins is now officially the Chief of Police for the Village of New Boston, replacing Darrold Clark who recently retired. Wednesday at the stroke of noon, Goins was sworn in by New Boston Mayor William “Junior” Williams at the New Boston Community Building.
Steve Goins (left) is sworn in as New Boston Chief of Police by New Boston Mayor Junior Williams
“Over 20 years with the school board and Council, he has always been accessible and helpful – I know he has helped Darrold in the past – he has just been a true leader,” Williams said. “He has gotten us going with our body cameras in place. We just got certified by the State of Ohio. He was instrumental in all those things. He is technologically advanced.”
Clark was on hand for support and told the Daily Times retirement is working well for him.
“I feel good not getting up in the morning, but I miss everybody especially when I need something done. There’s nobody around but me,” Clark said.
Clark was complimentary of his former captain.
“He’s a fine man,” Clark said.”That sort of explains it. He’s one of the greatest. I’m proud of him.”
Goins, who has been in law enforcement for 34 years, over 30 with the New Boston Police Department, was reflective of the occasion.
“It’s a good day,” Goins said. “When you’re hired in law enforcement you always look as a career to eventually reaching the top spot which is the Chief of Police. It has been a long time coming. I’m very appreciative of the Council, the mayor, they have always been good to me. They have always been good to the police department. I’ve always had the support of the officers in the police department, people I work with in the community.”
Goins said it is likely someone on the force will be promoted to fill his position as captain.
“The mayor and I will talk about that,” Goins said. “So there will probably be some promotions from within.”
With the current drug problem in Scioto County, Goins said he will hit the ground running.
“It’s a countywide problem, not just here in New Boston,” Goins said. “We have always worked together with other departments. We still will, but it is something that we have to tackle as a law enforcement community.”
Those in attendance, including former chiefs Clark and Gary Stone, enjoyed cake and ice cream and took the time to shake Goins’ hand.
“I think the people of New Boston are very lucky to have him as a police chief,” Williams said.
Reach Frank Lewis at 740-353-3101, ext. 1928, or on Twitter @franklewisPDT.