New Brockton police chief retires

The New Brockton City Council voted in a special-called council meeting Wednesday, Jan. 28, to accept the resignation of longtime police chief Dale Grimes.

New Brockton Assistant Police Chief Brian Lusher will serve as interim chief of the four-member department, New Brockton Mayor Kathy Holley said.

“Chief Grimes has been a confidant, a shoulder and a friend for many, many years, more years than either of us care to remember,” said a teary-eyed Holley, after Grime’s letter of resignation was read aloud. “I just want to say I appreciate all he’s done and all the work he’s put into this town.

“People love him and he has supported them for over 30 years,” Holley added. “I truly appreciate all he’s done.”

The council voted to send the police chief job title and description to the state employment agency to run for 10 days.

New Brockton Councilman Jack Young said that the chief’s resignation provided an opportunity to consider the issue of whether or not to continue maintaining a police department in the town.

Young said that the police department currently consumes some 60 percent of the town’s revenue and suggested that the council approach the Coffee County Sheriff’s Department for law enforcement support.

New Brockton Councilman Billy Tindol suggested that citizen input be sought through means of a town meeting prior to the council making any decision about disbanding the police department.

Grimes was not at the meeting, but he was in his office adjoining the council chambers clearing out his office.

“It was after careful consideration and with much thought, I decided to retire from the New Brockton Police Department,” Grimes said following the meeting. “I have served the department for 35 years—I came here when I was 23.

“I will miss the citizens of New Brockton, it’s been my home for 35 years and it’s hard to leave home,” Grimes said, adding that he will continue to serve with the Coffee County Sheriff’s Department. “If the citizens ever need me, I’ll just be a couple of blocks down the road.”