Paris Police Chief Ricky Watson to Retire After 30 Years in Law Enforcement

PARIS (May 7) — Paris Police Chief Ricky Watson will retire July 31, ending a nearly 30-year career with Paris and Henry County law enforcement, according to Paris officials.

Watson began his role as chief of police in 2021.

Watson’s departure is due to a “directional change” within the Paris Police Department, according to Paris City Manager Kim Foster. The City of Paris and Chief Watson have come to an agreement that is mutually beneficial and will allow him to reach retirement with a full 30 years of service.

Foster delivered the news to the Paris Police Department Wednesday night.
Assistant Police Chief Ean Reed has agreed to fill the role of Interim Police Chief. It is not yet clear when the City of Paris will open the position and begin its search for a new police chief.

Watson began his law enforcement career with the Henry County Sheriff’s Office in 1996. He began serving with the City of Paris Police Department in November 1999 and has served in many different roles within the department. In his time, he has been a patrol officer, a K-9 handler, a criminal investigator, a narcotics investigator with the Metro Crime Unit, the lieutenant of investigations, captain of the Paris Police Operations Unit, assistant chief of police and chief of police.

Watson attended various police training and leadership courses during his time in law enforcement, and he was named Paris Police Department Officer of the Year in 2002 and 2015.

Watson provided the following statement on his retirement:

“After a rewarding and fulfilling career serving the citizens of Paris, I am announcing my retirement from the City of Paris and the Paris Police Department.

"This decision comes with mixed emotions because this city has meant so much to me throughout my career. I love this city, and I love the Paris Police Department and all of its employees. It has been an honor and privilege to serve alongside so many dedicated individuals who work tirelessly each day for our community.

"Throughout my years in law enforcement, I had the opportunity to work with some truly outstanding officers — professional men and women who stood beside me during some very difficult times. Their loyalty, professionalism, and commitment to the badge are things I will never forget. I will always be grateful for the friendships and relationships built during my time with the department.

"Like many law enforcement agencies across the country, the Paris Police Department has faced challenges involving recruitment and retention in today’s workforce environment. Despite those challenges, I remain confident in the dedication and resilience of the officers and employees who continue to serve this community with pride.

"As I reflect on my career, I can honestly say there is nothing I would have changed. I am proud of the work we accomplished together, proud of the relationships built along the way, and proud to retire at the top of my career.

"I want to sincerely thank the citizens of Paris, my fellow officers, city leadership and all city employees for their support throughout the years. Serving this community has been one of the greatest honors of my life.

"I wish the City of Paris and all of its employees nothing but continued success and the very best in the years ahead.”