The Addison Police Department is proud to announce the promotion of TJ Smetzer to Assistant Police Chief. Assistant Chief Smetzer has been an integral part of the department since August 2012, bringing a wealth of experience and dedication to his new role.
Assistant Chief TJ Smetzer has a distinguished career with the Addison Police Department, having served in numerous capacities including captain over the support bureau, patrol lieutenant, support services lieutenant, patrol sergeant, sergeant over training and hiring, background investigator, field training officer, and officer in charge. His extensive experience and commitment to the department have earned him this well-deserved promotion.
Before joining the Addison Police Department, he worked for the Baylor Health Care System Police Department for seven years as a police dispatcher and police officer. Additionally, he shared his expertise as an adjunct professor of Texas government at Richland College from 2013 to 2017.
Assistant Chief Smetzer holds bachelor’s degrees in political science and emergency management from the University of North Texas (UNT) and a master’s degree in public administration from UNT. He is also a graduate of the Institute of Law Enforcement Administration’s 59th School of Executive Leadership (2022) and its School of Police Supervision (2016).
When asked about the Addison Way, Assistant Chief Smetzer explained, "The Addison Way means going above and beyond for both citizens and other Addison employees." This philosophy has guided his career and continues to inspire his work.
Assistant Chief Smetzer grew up in Plano, TX, graduated from Plano Senior High School, and currently resides in Dallas. In his free time, he enjoys traveling and following current events and politics. He is on a mission to visit all 50 state capitols and has already visited 42.
Assistant Chief Smetzer's promotion underscores the Addison Police Department's commitment to excellence and community service. His leadership and experience will undoubtedly contribute to the continued safety and well-being of Addison's residents.
