Joel M. Pierce has been hired as the new St. Johnsbury Police Chief.

Joel M. Pierce has been hired as the new St. Johnsbury Police Chief. Pierce has already signed a contract with the town to replace outgoing Police Chief Tim Page. Chief Page has said he plans to retire in December but will assist Pierce with administration and orientation. Pierce will leave the Barre City Police Department and start as chief in St. Johnsbury on October 10. Pierce, who is a former St. Johnsbury Police Officer, said he has plans for his new department. “It’ll be nice to bring a fresh perspective to the area and a dynamic look at crime management,” said Pierce. Pierce also said he plans to bring a certain focus to the local drug problem.