Ash Grove will soon welcome new chief of police Mahan

Ash Grove will soon have a new chief of police as Joe Mahan steps into the position on Aug. 8.

The former chief of Walnut Grove hopes to bring his newfound community together through outreach and events.

Mahan has been the chief of police at Walnut Grove for 8 years. Throughout his years in the position, he has worked hard to better the police force through increasing community involvement. That’s one of his greatest strengths he said in an interview, and it’s that strength he wishes to bring to his new home in Ash Grove.

“The biggest thing I want to start with is community engagement,” said Mahan.

His law enforcement philosophy draws from his community-first mindset. Mahan said that, in his opinion, one of the most important things an officer can do is treat people the right way.

“My philosophy is you treat everyone with respect, and you need to lead by example,” said Mahan.

According to the incoming chief, his abilities align well with the needs of the city.

“I think [I bring] good leadership, a positive approach with the community and citizens and I just like to meet people and talk to them,” he said.

Mahan made his mark in the community of Walnut Grove, building up a police department that was struggling when he arrived. While at Walnut Grove, Mahan started the Walnut Grove Safety Fair, inviting multiple agencies to inform the youth and provide information.

Mahan would also frequent the school in the town and attend every possible celebration hosted by the city.

He wants to bring that same involvement to Ash Grove, even planning to hold a safety fair, much like he did in Walnut Grove.

The former Walnut Grove chief is bringing his talents to Ash Grove as he felt he accomplished what he set out to do in the former.

“We kind of had to build that department from the ground up,” said Mahan. “I think we’re at a good enough point in time now that I can step back and let somebody else run it.”

At 38 years old, Mahan said that he plans to spend much of his career in the city of Ash Grove.

“I plan on staying here long-term,” he said.

The outgoing chief, John Davis, unnoficially announced his retirement earlier this year, at a Board of Aldermen meeting in March. His going-away celebration is the day before Mahan is scheduled to take over his duties. Davis has been the Chief of Police in Ash Grove since 2022, shortly after the department experienced officer shortages in the department.

Mahan said that he is looking forward to taking the position in Ash Grove; his first day is Aug. 8.

“I think that the culture and the history of [Ash Grove] is what I like the best because it’s a very rich environment,” said Mahon. “You’ve got folks from all over up here... It’s like a melting pot in a really rich culture.”