New Roads Assistant Police Chief resigns days after Chief's departure

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Just days after the New Roads Police Chief Louis Hamilton resigned, the department's Assistant Police Chief John Chambliss has now also turned in his resignation, effective immediately. Mayor Theron Smith confirmed Chambliss' departure, stating he wanted to 'relieve himself and the City of the continual media scrutiny'. The Pointe Coupee Sheriff's Office will assist New Roads Police in providing coverage to the city limits until an interim chief is named.

Why it matters

The back-to-back resignations of the New Roads police leadership raise concerns about the stability and direction of the department, which has faced recent controversies including the firing of an officer for alleged drug distribution. The involvement of the county sheriff's office to provide coverage also suggests a potential need for outside assistance and oversight.

The details

John Chambliss had initially rescinded his resignation letter prior to Chief Hamilton's departure, but has now officially resigned as Assistant Police Chief. Mayor Smith cited the 'continual media scrutiny' as the reason Chambliss wanted to step down. The Pointe Coupee Sheriff's Office will temporarily provide coverage and guidance to the New Roads Police Department until an interim chief is named.

• On February 10, 2026, Police Chief Louis Hamilton resigned from the New Roads PD.
• On February 18, 2026, Assistant Police Chief John Chambliss turned in his resignation, effective immediately.

What they’re saying

What’s next

It is unclear who will be named as the interim police chief for the New Roads Police Department. The mayor stated that high-ranking deputies from the Pointe Coupee Sheriff's Office will provide guidance to the department until a new chief is appointed.