After 29 years of service in law enforcement, Ava Police Chief David Overcast officially retired Friday, Oct. 30, marking the end of a distinguished career dedicated to protecting and serving the community.
Throughout his tenure, Overcast played an instrumental role in expanding the Ava Police Department’s capabilities, including the establishment of a detective position, K9 unit and Warrant Enforcement Task Force.
In a heartfelt farewell shared by the Ava Police Department, fellow officers reflected on Overcast’s leadership, mentorship and lasting influence on those who served alongside him.
The department shared the following tribute, titled “Final Call for 412,” honoring Overcast’s years of service and wishing him well in retirement:
Friday, October 30, marked the end of an era at the Ava Police Department as Chief David Overcast officially retired after 29 years of dedicated law enforcement service.
Chief Overcast has left a lasting mark on this department and the community he has served. During his time as Chief, he helped build and strengthen our department by establishing a Detective position, creating our K9 Unit, and most recently establishing our Warrant Enforcement Task Force. These are just a few examples of the many ways he has worked to move this department forward.
But his impact goes far beyond the programs he established or the years he served. Around here, he has been so much more than a Chief. He has been a mentor, a friend, a storyteller, and, in many ways, a father figure to those of us who have had the privilege of working alongside him.
It’s hard to put into words just how much he will be missed. The stories, the laughter, the guidance, and yes, even the occasional hillbilly wisdom will leave a pretty big hole around here!
Chief, thank you for 29 years of service, for everything you’ve built, and for the countless ways you’ve made this department a better place. We wish you nothing but happiness, good health, and plenty of time for fishing, hunting, and enjoying the people you love.
You may be hanging up the badge, but you’ll always be part of the Ava PD family.
Enjoy retirement, Chief. You’ve earned it!
412, signing off.
