It is our privilege to announce that effective January 1, 2024, The Town of Clifton Forge is promoting Lieutenant B. S. Balser to Chief of Police and Director of Emergency Services for the town. Following in his father’s footsteps Balser brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his new position. He has been with the department since November 2021 and has 18 years of experience in law enforcement. He began his career in December 2003 with the Botetourt County Sheriff’s Office and worked with the City of Covington Division of Police prior to coming to the Clifton Forge Police Department.
During his career, Balser has served as a General Instructor for the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services, school resource officer, DARE Instructor, Tactical Medicine Instructor, and Crime Scene Technician. Balser was selected to attend the 98th session of the Virginia Department of Forensic Science Academy in 2019.
Balser is a third-generation police officer. His grandfather, Robert Balser, worked for the City of Covington Division of Police, while his father, Barry Balser, is the retired Chief of Police for the Town of Clifton Forge.
Balser said “I’d like to thank Town Manager, Chuck Unroe, and the Town Council, for the opportunity to take on this role. I am looking forward to this new adventure. I have some pretty big shoes to fill.”
Please help us welcome Chief Balser to his new position.