(June 26, 2026) The Davenport Police Department is pleased to announce that Captain Jason Smith, a 27-year veteran of the Davenport Police Department, has been promoted to the rank of Major and will serve as the Assistant Chief of Police effective July 5, 2026. Smith’s promotion follows the appointment of Major Greg Behning to Chief of Police.
Major Smith, a Davenport native, joined the Davenport Police Department in 1999. Throughout his career, he has served in every division of the department. He has held Bureau Commander roles in Criminal Investigations, Crime Prevention, Traffic Safety, and Patrol. Additionally, he previously served as Internal Affairs Officer, Patrol Division Commander, and most recently as Services Division Commander. Major Smith also spent ten years on the Department’s Emergency Services Team, serving numerous high‑risk search warrants and operations and retiring as the Sniper Team Leader.
During his tenure, Major Smith has been instrumental in advancing key department initiatives. He has championed partnerships with Davenport Community Schools and the School Resource Officer Program, supported the Davenport Public Safety Chaplain Program, and helped lead the department’s Crime Analysis Unit from its inception. As the agency dignitary liaison to the U.S. Secret Service, and special events coordinator, he has served as incident commander for numerous major events and contributed to Davenport’s National Public Safety Partnership while promoting the integration of technology in policing.
Throughout his career he has received multiple awards including a commendation bar, several excellent duty bars and unit citations, a 25-year good conduct medal, and the physical fitness award. He is also a past recipient of the Noon Optimist Sergeant Kevin Marxen Respect for Law Award.
Major Smith is a graduate of St. Ambrose University where he received a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice. He also holds a Master of Arts in Theology from the Augustine Institute. He is also a graduate of the State of Illinois’ law enforcement leadership training program, the Police Executive Role in the 21st Century.
“Major Smith’s dedication to serving others resonates in every aspect of his life. His leadership and commitment to the community have strengthened our organization and we are excited about the future with him in this new role,” said Chief Greg Behning. “We congratulate him on this promotion and look forward to the positive impact he will continue to make.”
Reflecting on his new position, Major Smith expressed appreciation for the opportunity and excitement for the work ahead.
“I am deeply thankful and honored for the opportunity to continue serving the same community that has given so much to me. I am excited to support the dedicated men and women who proudly wear the badge, as well as the professional staff whose commitment is essential to our success,” said Major Smith. “I look forward to building upon the Davenport Police Department’s strong tradition of partnering with the community and continuing our commitment to excellence in public service.”
The Davenport Police Department congratulates Major Jason Smith on his well-earned promotion.