VALENTINE, Neb. - Valentine’s new police chief will be a familiar face. Jamon Slama, a longtime member of the Valentine Police Department, has been appointed to the position, City Administrator Shane Siewert confirmed.

Slama, who has been with the department since January 2004, brings years of experience, including time as a lieutenant and a stint as acting chief. He will officially step into his new role on Thursday.

“I think his experience with the department and his managerial background as a lieutenant make him well-qualified for the job,” said Siewert.

Slama takes over from Chief Dana Miller, who recently announced her resignation after more than a decade of leadership. Miller, a veteran of nearly 30 years in law enforcement, has accepted a new position with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

The transition leaves the Valentine Police Department operating with four officers, two short of its authorized six. According to Siewert, efforts are underway to hire two new officers to fill the vacancies.