Effective June 3, 2019, Captain Michael Hudgins will assume the role of Assistant Chief of Police for the Newport News Police Department. Captain Hudgins is currently responsible for the Criminal Investigations Division of the Department and has been with the Department for over 24 years. He fills the vacancy left by Assistant Chief Joseph Moore who retired in December 2018.
Captain Hudgins has held several pivotal positions with the Department. Prior to his current position in the Criminal Investigations Division, he was the Precinct Commander for Central Precinct. As a Lieutenant, he managed the Community Outreach Section, South Precinct, as well as the Narcotics and Gang Section (Organized Crime Division). Captain Hudgins also served as commander of the narcotics team and on federal drug and gang task forces. He has served in other roles working closely with our federal partners dismantling organizations that perpetuate violent acts and proliferation of gun violence in Newport News.
Captain Hudgins holds a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Old Dominion University; a Law Enforcement Certificate from the Hampton Roads Regional Academy of Justice; and a graduate certificate in Local Government Management from Virginia Tech. He is currently working on his Masters of Public Administration at Old Dominion University with an anticipated graduation date of June 2019.
“This decision was one of the most difficult ones I’ve had to make since coming to Newport News, because, we had numerous qualified candidates,” said Police Chief, Steve Drew.”
“Captain Hudgins’ experience in his many roles makes him an excellent choice for the position of Assistant Chief,” added Drew. “In addition, his goals, values, and priorities align perfectly with the Department’s overall mission.” Chief Drew stated that the selection process included input from several community leaders and feels this is a very important part of the process when choosing leaders for this Department.
Other promotions that will also be effective on June 3: Lt. Brandon Creswell has been promoted to the rank of Captain; Sgt. Jessica Pennington and Sgt. Richard Fish have been promoted to the rank of Lieutenant; MPO Jamelle Alexander, MPO Erik Kempf and MPO Albin Pearson have all been promoted to the rank of Sergeant. “I feel we have promoted the right group of officers and look forward to working with all of them in continuing to reach our goals here at the NNPD,” Drew said.