Captain John Kiely, a 25-year Knoxville Police Department veteran, has announced that he will retire on December 31, 2023. 

Kiely currently serves as the commander of the Field Operations Bureau’s West District, a role that he has served in since January 2023. Prior to that, he served a long stint as a Captain within the Investigations Bureau, overseeing the Violent Crime and Property Crime Units. 

“It’s impossible to overstate how much John has meant to our department and leadership team,” Chief of Police Paul Noel said. “John cares so deeply about people and has devoted his entire life to service in some capacity. There’s simply no replacing John, who has been an abundantly consistent, measured and, most importantly, compassionate leader.” 

Kiely was promoted to Sergeant in 2005 and Lieutenant in 2011 before joining the Command Staff with his promotion to Captain in 2016. Kiely, a two-time recipient of the KPD Life-Saving Award, is an active member of the Air Force National Guard, where he serves as a Chief Master Sergeant. 

“This was the most difficult decision of my life. Over the past 25 years, I have been blessed to be a part of the Knoxville Police Department family,” Kiely said. “I loved being a police officer because it gave me the opportunity every single day to help people, especially kids who needed our help. I’ll miss seeing my brothers and sisters at KPD, but I will forever cherish my time and experiences with the KPD.” 

Captain Tracy Hunter, who currently serves as a Captain in the Investigations Bureau, will assume command of the West District, effective on Sunday, December 24. Captain Hunter is a recent graduate of the FBI National Academy who was promoted to Captain in January 2023.