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Johnston Police - Officer Spotlight

The Johnston Police Department is committed to community policing and building relationships with the Johnston residents they protect and serve. To help in this effort, the department will use the "Officer Spotlight" section to provide background information on the police officers serving the Johnston community. Check back often to learn more about your local police force.

Question & Answer with: Chief Douglas Nichols

How long have you been a police officer?

I have been in law enforcement for more than 35 years. Firs,t I was with the Des Moines Police Department from 1972 to March of 2005. I was appointed as the Johnston Police Chief in April of 2005.

What did you do before you became a police officer?

After receiving my B.A. in business administration from the University of Iowa, I worked for a local insurance company for two years before becoming a police officer.

Why did you choose to become a police officer?

I developed an interest as I grew up. My father was a Des Moines Police Officer and was the Police Chief for 10 years.

What do you like best about your profession?

I am fortunate to have a career that is fun and offers a wide diversity of tasks and opportunities. For example I have worked in patrol, detective bureau, as a training officer, personnel, narcotics, special operations, intelligence and traffic. I’ve worked on a wide range of investigations including drunken driving, sex crimes, assaults, homicides and burglaries. As I moved into command and administrative positions I became involved with policy making, personnel issues and fiscal matters. I’ve had the opportunity to attend numerous law enforcement training programs including the FBI National Academy and the Senior Management Institute for Police.

What do you like the least about your profession?

While law enforcement generally receives excellent public support, unfortunately all police officers, including Chiefs of Police, must deal with a very small element of the public that is disrespectful, nasty in their attitude and otherwise unreasonable in their behavior and expectations.

Also, the intense scrutiny especially by the media, while necessary, can be unpleasant and frustrating at times.

What do you enjoy doing when you are not on duty?

I like playing golf, hunting pheasants, fishing in Canada, going to Iowa Hawkeye football games, working around the house and yard and visiting my adult children in Idaho and Arizona.