The City of Myrtle Beach is pleased to announce Frederick Chambers as the next chief of the Myrtle Beach Police Department. His first day as chief of police is expected in late September or early October.
“I am deeply privileged to join the Myrtle Beach Police Department and work alongside the dedicated men and women who serve this community every day,” Chambers said. “Effective policing is built on communication, partnership and trust. I look forward to supporting our officers while listening and engaging with residents, business owners, faith leaders and community groups. Together, we will build on MBPD’s strong foundation of service and work toward an even safer, stronger future for Myrtle Beach.”
Background & Experience
Chambers brings more than 26 years of law enforcement experience and currently serves as a deputy chief of police for the Fairfax County Police Department in Northern Virginia. He also served in the U.S. Marine Corps and as a uniformed police officer with the U.S. Secret Service.
As a deputy chief, Chambers leads the Fairfax County Police Department’s Organized Crime and Intelligence Bureau, overseeing investigations and strategies addressing organized crime, intelligence and threats to public safety and national security. During his career with the department, he has also served as Patrol Bureau commander, Mount Vernon District Station commander and Criminal Investigations Division commander.
As Patrol Bureau commander, Chambers led three of the eight district stations in Fairfax County. This included more than 350 sworn officers, professional staff members and volunteers.
As commander of the Mount Vernon District Station, Chambers was responsible for public safety services for more than 132,000 residents across 26 square miles. He also served as the departmental spokesperson during critical incidents and community initiatives and held monthly community meetings to strengthen relationships between officers and residents.
Chambers holds a Master of Science in public safety from Liberty University and is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and the Police Executive Research Forum’s Senior Management Institute for Police. He also holds an active FBI top secret security clearance.
Chambers has a personal connection to Myrtle Beach, too. He and his wife have visited the area for years with their four children.
Selection Process
Chambers’ appointment follows a national selection process that included internal and external candidates, interviews, a public meet-and-greet, a separate meet-and-greet with members of the Myrtle Beach Police Department and input from residents, police officers and city staff. Throughout the process, feedback from the Police Department and community closely aligned with feedback from city leadership, resulting in a clear choice for the position.
“I appreciate the public’s participation and patience throughout this national search, as well as the valuable input from our Police Department,” City Manager Jonathan “Fox” Simons Jr. said. “Fred Chambers brings extensive leadership experience, a strong commitment to community policing and a record of service to our country. He is the best person for the job, and I am proud to appoint him as our next chief of police.”
