Office of Governor William P. Clements, Jr. April 10, 1979 For Immediate Release: Governor Bill Clements today announced his appointment of James B. Adams, the number two executive in the Federal Bureau of Investigation, as executive director of the Criminal Justice Division of the Governor's Office, effective June 1, 1979. Adams announced his retirement Monday as associate director, or general manager, of the F.B.I., a post he has held since April 1978. He will terminate his duties with the F.B.I. in May. As first assistant to the Director, Adams exercised general supervision and direction over all the activities of the F.B.I., both in Washington, D.C. and in the field. The current director of the Criminal Justice Division, Robert Flowers, who was appointed by Governor Dolph Briscoe, will continue in the division, serving as its deputy director. Adams, 52, a native of Mexia, was graduated from Baylor University with a bachelor of arts and a law degree. He served in the U.S. Army filim 1944 to 1946. He practiced law in Limestone County from 1949 to 1951, and served as assistant county attorney. He was elected to the Texas House of Representatives and held office fram January to July of 1951, before resigning upon his appointment to the F.B.I. During his 28 years with the F.B.I., Adams served in a variety of posts in Washington, D.C. and around the United States, including an 18-month stint as special agent in charge of the San Antonio field division. He was the 1978 recipient of the Attorney General's Award for Distinguished Service. Governor Clements said, "A person of Jim Adams' outstanding training and experience adds a new dimension to the fight against crime in Texas and illustrates my commitment to winning that fight. His background in law, law enforcement, and management provides him with a unique combination of qualifications for this very vital post." Of Flowers, the Governor said, "Bob's service to the State of Texas has been both long and distinguished, and I am pleased to have him be a part of my administration. His experience and background in state government will make him of invaluable assistance to me and to Jim Adams."
