Milam leaves Fort Smith police to lead regional emergency dispatch center

Capt. Wes Milam resigned from the Fort Smith Police Department after 22 years of dedicated service to assume the role of director of public safety communications for the City of Fort Smith, effective June 23. He began his career in law enforcement on December 30, 2002, and achieved the rank of captain in 2018, showcasing a commitment to leadership and innovation. Milam holds a Doctorate in Public Administration and has completed specialized training at Northwestern University. In his new position, he will oversee the newly established River Valley Communications Center, a consolidated 911 dispatch hub designed to enhance multi-agency coordination in emergency response efforts.

Chief Danny Baker commended Milam’s accomplishments and expressed confidence in his leadership for the critical project. Milam's extensive background includes various roles, such as emergency management and crisis negotiation, reflecting his comprehensive knowledge of public safety operations. His contributions are expected to positively influence public safety services across the region. Milam’s transition from a sworn officer to a director role signifies a strategic move to leverage his institutional knowledge for improved community safety.