XENIA — Xenia Police Officer Richard “Scott” Sams is retiring from the Xenia Police Division effective Saturday, Jan. 28.
Sams, a 25-year police veteran, is a graduate of Xenia High School.
Before starting his career with the XPD, Sams served six years in the Ohio Army National Guard Infantry Division with responsibility for firearms, squad movements and tactics. He began his career with the Xenia police in 1992, accepting many assignments during his career. He was a detective in the criminal investigation section, a field training officer, an evidence technician, and was a member of the Special Events Tactical Team.
“Officer Scott Sams is and has been a great asset to the police division,” Chief Randy Person said. “Time and again his knowledge of the community, relationships in the community, and his vast knowledge of individuals living in Xenia have enabled the police division to solve crimes or locate individuals in an emergency. Scott is one of those steadfast workers who arrive to work every day with a pleasant demeanor. The city is losing a great resource with Scott’s retirement.”
Sams received many commendations recognizing his professional conduct and performance throughout his career.
In October 1998, he was received the Xenia Police Division Leadership Award for his work ethic, establishing a reputation of integrity and reliability, and demonstrating daily leadership as a “go to person.” In September 2000, he received a Meritorious Service Award recognizing him as a first-responder as an off-duty officer the night of the Sept. 20, 2000 tornado.
Sams was the recipient of the Casey Elliott Memorial “City’s Finest” Award in 2002 for this continuous leadership and unwavering dedication to his profession and service to the community. In May 2009, he received a Distinguished Service Award. Recipients are recognized with this award for an outstanding act of heroism or bravery involving significant risk to personal safety. Most recently, Sams was presented with a Xenia Police Division Life Saving Commendation for his efforts and quick action to save the life of another.
