Amherst Chooses New Police Chief To Replace Lyon

The Amherst Board of Selectmen have chosen a replacement for police chief Peter Lyon, who will retire later this month.

The board announced in a press release that Lieutenant Mark Reams has been appointed as the new chief, which will be effective once Lyon retires on Oct. 27.

Lieutenant Reams is a 19 year veteran of the Amherst Police Department, having worked his way up through the ranks. During that time, he has led both the Operations and Support Divisions of the department.  

He attended the University of New Hampshire, graduating in 1990 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science.  He has since attended specialized training with the FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development Association, and the Police Command Training Center at Roger Williams University.

Lieutenant Reams and his wife Dawn, have made their home in Amherst with their two sons Benjamin and Jack.

“Over the years, Mark has demonstrated that he is a proven leader and his commitment to the Town of Amherst. The town is fortunate, to have someone of Mark’s caliber, to lead our Police Department, which started day one, when he graduated from the Police Academy at the head of his class, in Combined Academics, Physical Fitness and Firearms Proficiency. I am looking forward to working with Chief Reams and knowing, he will continue to maintain the professionalism of the Amherst Police Department,” said Chairman Bruce Bowler.

Chief Lyon expressed his satisfaction in knowing that “the police department will be in good hands,” with Reams.

“Mark possesses an intellect and a level of common sense that have led him to a position of respect with the department members, district court personnel and the community at large.  It is clear that Mark is committed to the town of Amherst, and to continuing the tradition of excellent policing that the residents have come to expect. It’s a sign of a healthy and thriving police department when leaders can be found within the organization.”

Selectman George Infanti said that “Lieutenant Reams brings to the table all that Amherst wants and needs in a Police Chief. His years of experience as a patrolman, then as an officer within the department have given him the training required to take over from Chief Lyon. His education level and commitment to always bettering himself has convinced me we have made the right decision. I wish him well and I look forward to working with him in the future”.

Selectman Dwight Brew added, “I am extremely pleased that Lieutenant Reams applied for the position of Amherst Police Chief. His interview, training and recommendations all convince me that mark will make an excellent chief”.

Town Administrator Jim O’Mara said Reams is very qualified for the position.

"Lieutenant Mark Reams is eminently qualified to assume command of the department. He is a well rounded police professional, having worked in all areas in the department, I am confident he can hit the ground running," said O'Mara.