Woody appointed chief at OPD

OSBURN – Earlier this month, Jason Woody was officially sworn in as the new Police Chief of Osburn, bringing more than two decades of law enforcement experience to the role.

Woody has served with the Osburn Police Department for the past nine years, most recently as lieutenant under longtime Chief Darell Braaten, who retired earlier this year. His appointment was made official during a ceremony led by Osburn Mayor Kip McGillivray.

"He's just an exceptional cop," McGillivray said. "He's been groomed well. He understands and is involved in the community, and I think that's the most important part of the job." 

While Woody is honored to step into the role, his promotion is also seen as a major win for the community. Alongside Chief Braaten, Woody has been a familiar and active presence throughout the Silver Valley, playing a key role in events like the annual Shop-With-A-Cop fundraiser and other holiday initiatives.

“I love the close-knit community,” Woody said. “It’s incredibly rewarding to know the work you do directly impacts the citizens and helps keep this town safe, clean, and welcoming. You truly feel like you’re part of something bigger than yourself.”

Woody’s career has included time with several agencies across the Silver Valley. Though he never set out to become chief, his focus has always been on serving the community in whatever capacity he could. 

“When I first started in law enforcement, my main goal was to serve and protect my community with integrity,” Woody said. “I didn’t necessarily start with the dream of becoming chief of police. It was more about doing the job well, learning everything I could, and making a difference. Over time, as I gained experience and took on more responsibility, I realized that leadership offered an even greater opportunity to influence positive change. While it may not have been the initial dream, the path naturally led me here, and I’m honored to be the Osburn Police Chief.”

With many years of service still ahead, Woody hopes to continue his career in Osburn for the long haul.

“I can’t predict the future, but I know that right now, Osburn feels like the place I’d want to retire from,” Woody said. “I enjoy the people I work with, I care about the community, and the work is meaningful. That’s a rare combination, and I don’t take it for granted.”

McGillivray agrees and hopes to see Woody serve the community for a long time. 

"100%, the dream is that he would be the Chief of Police here in Osburn until he retires," McGillivray said.