Brian Whited Named New Police Chief in Front Royal

The Town of Front Royal has announced the appointment of Brian Whited as the new Chief of Police. Whited, currently serving as a Captain, will officially take on his new role on November 1, 2024. With over two decades of service in local law enforcement, his appointment marks the culmination of a remarkable career dedicated to the safety and well-being of the community.

Brian Whited

Whited’s connection to public service began long before he joined the police force. His first roles with the Town were in the Refuse and Recycling department in 1995, followed by a transfer to Water and Sewer in 1996. However, Whited’s true passion for public safety developed during his teenage years when he volunteered with the Front Royal Fire Department. This early experience in emergency services ignited his desire to pursue a career in law enforcement.

While working full-time for the Town, Whited completed the Auxiliary Police Academy at the Rappahannock Regional Criminal Justice Academy. His law enforcement career officially began in 2002 when he became a certified police officer for Front Royal. Since then, he has steadily advanced through the ranks, taking on various positions that prepared him for leadership.

Whited’s early years as a patrol officer eventually led him to work as a detective with the Northwest Virginia Regional Drug and Gang Task Force. From there, his career took him into positions of growing responsibility, including Master Police Officer and Sergeant. His leadership skills became further evident when he was promoted to Captain in 2023, where he served in both operational and logistical capacities.

In addition to his various roles within the department, Whited has taken on special responsibilities, including SWAT Commander, Crisis Negotiations Team Leader, and Lead Firearms Instructor. These roles demonstrate his versatility and readiness to respond to a wide range of situations, making him well-prepared for his new position as Police Chief.

Whited’s career has also been shaped by his commitment to continued education and professional development. He has completed the highly regarded FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development Association (LEEDA) Trilogy Series and attended the Southern Police Institute for Managing a Small Law Agency. These programs, focused on leadership and management, are recognized for equipping law enforcement officers with the tools to effectively lead modern police departments.

As Captain, Whited has also been instrumental in bringing new projects and innovations to the Front Royal Police Department. His efforts have enhanced public safety and promoted the use of technology to improve departmental operations. His focus on community-oriented policing and strategic planning has earned him respect from both his colleagues and the public.

With his extensive experience and dedication, Whited is well-suited to lead the department into the future. Town officials have expressed their confidence in his ability to build on the department’s successes while continuing to prioritize the safety and security of Front Royal’s residents.

Whited takes on the role at a time when law enforcement is increasingly complex, requiring leadership that is both forward-thinking and community-centered. His background, both within and outside of law enforcement, provides him with a unique perspective to tackle these challenges. The residents of Front Royal can be assured that their new Police Chief is someone who knows the community well and is committed to its protection.

As Whited prepares to step into his new role, the Town looks forward to his leadership. His appointment reflects both his personal commitment to the town and the broader vision for the future of law enforcement in Front Royal.