The search for a new police chief in Christiansburg has begun after current Chief Chris Ramsey announced his retirement.
The town announced Ramsey will officially step down Dec. 31, 2026.
He has spent 26 years with the Christiansburg Department and a total of 31 years in law enforcement. Ramsey has served as chief since 2023, previously serving six years as assistant chief of police.
Ramsey began his career in Christiansburg in 2000, and prior to that, worked for the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office.
Throughout his time in Christiansburg he has risen through the ranks, serving as a patrol officer, patrol sergeant, patrol lieutenant, professional standards lieutenant, and SWAT team commander, before being appointed as a member of the agency’s command staff.
As a command staff member, he was appointed to the role of Captain of Operations in 2009 and served in that capacity for eight years before his appointment as Assistant Chief.
Mayor Mike Barber thanked Ramsey for his service to the community.
“Chief Ramsey has dedicated the majority of his life to Christiansburg, its residents and visitors,” said Barber. “Our town is forever grateful to Chief Ramsey for his unwavering support, service and selfless protection to our community. We also recognize and thank his family for their willingness to support Chief throughout his proud law enforcement career.”
Ramsey has been credited with being essential in the growth and development of the police force, having developed and implemented numerous programs, policies and procedures. His most notable duties included serving as incident commander for major crimes and critical incidents, including serving as part of the incident command team for the April 16 shootings at Virginia Tech and the manhunt for William Morva.
He has also prioritized educational and training opportunities for his staff and is a proud graduate of the 261st Session of FBI National Academy.
Ramsey said it has been an honor and a privilege to serve as Christiansburg’s police chief, saying leaving is bittersweet as the job truly is a “calling.”
“I could not be prouder of the men and women of the Christiansburg Police Department, the service we have provided and the goals we have accomplished over the years,” he said. “I firmly believe they represent the best of law enforcement and that they will continue to serve the community with honor and integrity. I have been blessed with a family that has always loved and supported me and now it’s time for me to devote my full attention to them. I am grateful for the opportunities that I have been afforded by the Town and this community and most importantly, the good Lord. May God continue to bless this community and the law enforcement officers that serve it.”
