City hires new Police Chief

The City of Bullhead City is pleased to announce the appointment of Paul George Jr. as its new Chief of Police. George’s selection comes after a comprehensive nationwide search to lead the Bullhead City Police Department. He will assume command of the department and oversee public safety operations for the city, bringing with him a wealth of law enforcement experience and a strong commitment to community-focused policing. Chief George is expected to start his new post on May 4 contingent upon passing all mandatory background and Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training Board requirements.

“It is a true honor to be selected as the next Chief of Police for Bullhead City and to serve such a beautiful community supported by a strong and dedicated police department,” said George. “I am proud to stand alongside the men and women of this agency and look forward to working together with both staff and community. Together, we will strive to become a model agency for the state, chasing perfection one day at a time.”

City Manager Toby Cotter welcomed George to the position, expressing confidence in the new chief’s abilities.

“We are thrilled to welcome Paul George Jr. as Bullhead City’s next Chief of Police,” said Cotter. “Paul’s proven leadership and dedication to community policing will be a tremendous asset to our city. Our City Council and management team are committed to supporting our police department, and we are confident that under Chief George’s guidance, the department will continue to advance and keep our community safe for years to come.”

Chief Paul George Jr. comes to Bullhead City from Hardin, Montana, where he has served as Chief of Police since 2023. He grew up in Georgia and has been involved in law enforcement for most of his life – beginning as a police explorer at age 14 and later working as a 911 dispatcher early in his career. He spent a significant portion of his law enforcement tenure in the Southeast, including in the Atlanta metropolitan area, before taking on his first chief role in Montana. Including his current role as Chief of Police, Chief George also has an extensive background:

• A Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Thomas University;
• An Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Savannah Technical College;
• Served as a Deputy Sheriff Lieutenant for the Fulton County Sheriff’s Department;
• Served as Acting Captain for the Kingsland, GA Police Department;
• Corporal with the Brunswick, GA Police Department;
• 911 Communications Officer with the Camden County Sheriff’s Office.

Over the course of his career, George has built a reputation for energetic, forward-thinking leadership and community engagement. In Hardin, Montana, he expanded the police department, created new alliances and forged strong relationships with local residents through outreach and visible community policing. Additionally, he prioritized interagency collaboration – working closely with county and state law enforcement – to enhance public safety across the region. George has been recognized for launching successful crime prevention programs and traffic safety initiatives during his tenure. 

Chief George’s leadership philosophy centers on community policing, transparency, and proactive public safety. He has described himself as a community-oriented leader who encourages his officers to build trust through positive daily interactions with the public. Known for his hands-on style, George enjoys being with his team and believes in leading by example. Ultimately, his goal is to ensure the department provides professional, effective law enforcement services that keep the community safe. During his two recent interview trips to Bullhead City, he saw how much the community embraces the Police Department and he expressed confidence in the officers and staff members he met during those visits. 

As the incoming chief, George has outlined several key priorities for the Bullhead City Police Department that align with the community’s needs. These priorities include:

• Strengthening community policing and outreach programs;
• Enhancing officer training, recruitment, and retention efforts;
• Expanding crime prevention initiatives and traffic safety enforcement;
• Fostering transparency, accountability, and public trust;
• Building collaborative partnerships with neighboring agencies and community organizations.

He said these initiatives aim to bolster public safety, build trust and maintain Bullhead City’s reputation as a safe and welcoming community for residents and visitors alike.