Columbus Police Chief Stoney Mathis Said Farewell

The veteran chief held an official ceremony as he prepares to conclude his three-year tenure with the department.

Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Law Enforcement

Columbus Police Chief Stoney Mathis Said Farewell

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Columbus Police Chief Stoney Mathis held a farewell ceremony this week to mark the conclusion of his three-year service. He has officially recommended Assistant Chief Lance Deaton to serve as his successor.

Why it matters

The transition represents a significant change in the leadership of the Columbus police force. Chief Mathis is stepping down to focus on his personal life, including spending time with his wife and grandchildren.

Chief Stoney Mathis will officially conclude his tenure on December 31, 2026, after serving for three years. The department has confirmed his recommendation for his successor.

The players

Stoney Mathis

He served as the police chief in Columbus for three years and is responsible for implementing a new management approach.

Lance Deaton

He is the current assistant chief of police who has been recommended to succeed Stoney Mathis.

Roderick Graham

He is a veteran officer who has dedicated 37 years of service to the Columbus police department.

Katina Williams

She leads the community policing unit and has served within the department for 27 years.

The details

During the farewell event, command staff members used humor and praise to reflect on the department's new approach to policing and management implemented under Mathis. The ceremony celebrated the careers of long-serving officers including Roderick Graham and Katina Williams.

Chief Stoney Mathis served as police chief from 2023 to 2026.
The final official day for Chief Stoney Mathis is December 31, 2026.

Legal Context

This leadership transition follows the operational shift initiated by the 2023 departmental management reform initiative. The changes mark a continued evolution in how the department structures its command and community engagement.

The change in command may influence future community policing initiatives and department management policies. Residents can expect continued operational oversight as the department transitions to new leadership at the end of the year.

The takeaway

The retirement of Chief Mathis highlights the importance of long-term succession planning within public safety agencies. Developing internal leadership ensures that departmental management strategies remain consistent during leadership shifts.