CRH appoints new System Chief of Police

COLUMBUS, Ind. - The Columbus Regional Health (CRH) Police Department announced James Webster as its newly appointed System Chief of Police and Director of Emergency Management.

Webster joined CRH in 2021 as Assistant Chief of Police; however, he brings more than 33 years of experience in law enforcement. He served as the chief of the North Vernon Police Department from 2006 to 2021.

Webster has spent the majority of his career in law enforcement administration, focusing on recruitment and retention, policy development, training and education, and service standards.

At CRH, James has played a vital role in the development and implementation of the hospital's police department. He has taken an active role in workplace violence prevention programs and co-instructs the Handle with Care training program. James is a member of the International Association for Healthcare Security and Safety (IAHSS) and serves on local and district Emergency Management committees.

Webster replaces former Chief Anthony (Tony) Pope, who retired in February 2026, after 10 years with the organization. During his tenure at CRH, Pope formed the CRH PD in December 2020. In retirement, Pope will serve as the president of the IAHSS. As IAHSS president, Pope is the chief ambassador and leader of the association, representing thousands of healthcare security and safety professionals worldwide.