Platte City has announced the selection of Captain Jeff Wilson as the city’s future police chief, succeeding Chief Joe Wellington, who will retire on April 1, after six years of service.
Wilson
Wellington has led the Platte City Police Department since March 18, 2019, and his leadership has been instrumental in ensuring the safety and security of the community. With his retirement on the horizon, the city began an extensive search in November 2024 to identify the right individual to carry forward the department’s commitment to excellence. The search process drew more than 40 applications, and the city conducted a rigorous selection process to narrow the pool to 10 candidates for preliminary interviews. Following unforeseen circumstances, nine candidates completed this initial round. From there, finalists were invited to Platte City Hall on Jan. 4 for in-person interviews, which featured panels comprising aldermen, senior city staff, police ofcers, and individual meetings with City Administrator Tom Cole and Mayor Steve Hoeger. After a comprehensive evaluation, Wilson emerged as the unanimous choice to lead the department.
Wilson brings over 31 years of extensive law enforcement experience to the role, having served with distinction at the City of St. Joseph Police Department. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a diverse and accomplished command and leadership background, equipping him with the expertise necessary to lead the Platte City Police Department into the future. A graduate of the prestigious FBI National Academy (233rd session) in Quantico, Va., Wilson has consistently shown a commitment to professional development and excellence in public safety leadership.
Hoeger expressed confidence in Wilson’s leadership, stating, “The city moved with lightning speed for government in selecting Jeff Wilson as the replacement for current Chief Joe Wellington. Chief Wellington gave us plenty of notice, and we wanted the new chief to have 4-6 weeks of transition time with Chief Wellington. While we did this in less than two months, the process was very comprehensive. We are blessed to have had so many qualified candidates interested in serving in Platte City. The decision was very difficult, and that’s what you want. Any of our finalists would have been excellent, but we are confident Jeff will continue our focus on public safety efforts in Platte City and make the department even better than it is today. He has his work cut out for him in that regard as Chief Wellington is leaving him with a great department.”
Chief Joe Wellington added, “I look forward to working with Jeff to ensure a seamless transition. After a thorough search, we were fortunate to have such a respected and experienced leader to carry this department forward. I am confident he will make a great police chief.”
City Administrator Tom Cole said, “Jeff Wilson hosts the skills, abilities, and attitude to carry forth the esteem of the police department established by Chief Wellington. He also brings new ideas, concepts, and methods that can build a solid future for public safety in Platte City.”
Reflecting on the appointment process, Wilson stated, “The selection process was incredibly professional and thorough, highlighting the dedication of Platte City’s staff and elected officials to the future of this community. I am honored to join this team and look forward to working with the dedicated officers and staff of the Platte City Police Department to continue fostering a safe and vibrant community.”
The city would like to thank all candidates who participated in the selection process and acknowledges their professionalism and enthusiasm for serving Platte City. The city also extends gratitude to Wellington for his years of service and contributions to the community.
Wilson’s tenure with Platte City will officially begin in March, when he will start with the city as a captain ensuring a smooth transition as Wellington prepares for his retirement. Upon Wellington’s retirement on April 1, Wilson will assume the title of chief.
The public is invited to meet Wilson at the next Board of Alderman meeting at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday Jan. 28.