A 2001 graduate of the Villisca High School has been named as the next Chief of Police in Red Oak. 33-year old Justin Rhamy, a native of Villisca, will take over in February for Chief Drue Powers, who is retiring. The Daily NonPareil reports Rhamy’s career in law enforcement began in school, when he job shadowed a Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office deputy.

Law enforcement runs in the family. Rhamy’s brother, Josh, is currently a sergeant with the Des Moines Police Department, and his uncle, Russ Gray, is an Adams County Sheriff’s Office deputy. Justin Rhamy joined Villisca Rescue in 2000 and eventually became the emergency medical service chief.

Rhamy spent four years with Red Oak police before a four-year stint with the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office. He rejoined the Red Oak force in February of 2013. As Chief, Rhamy said he’ll work to ensure officers build relationships with the community – including the general public, businesses and schools.

He lives in Red Oak with his wife of five years, Sydney, and their 4-year-old son, Owen. Rhamy will take over as acting chief on Feb. 6, while Powers uses his remaining vacation. The new chief will take over formally on Feb. 25th.