Birmingham Police Department Swears in New Deputy Chiefs Amid Staffing Challenges

Birmingham Welcomes Two New Deputy Chiefs

Birmingham, AL – The Birmingham Police Department took a significant step in its leadership on Friday, October 11, 2024, as two new deputy chiefs were sworn in at a ceremony held at the Birmingham Museum of Art. Deputy Chief Rodarius Mauldin and Deputy Chief Jeffrey Brown will take on crucial roles within the department as it faces challenges including a shortage of officers and rising homicide rates.

As the head of the department’s Administrative Bureau, Deputy Chief Mauldin has been assigned the responsibility of implementing Mayor Randall Woodfin’s ambitious $15.8 million plan aimed at recruiting and retaining police officers. Appointed in June, Mauldin highlighted the importance of this mission at the ceremony, stating, “Now it’s time to give the city a return on their investment.”

In the wake of the city council’s recent approval of Mayor Woodfin’s plan, which addresses the current vacancies within the police force, Mauldin expressed optimism about moving forward. The Birmingham Police Department currently has 223 vacancies across all sworn personnel, including 172 patrol officer positions.

On the other hand, Deputy Chief Jeffrey Brown, appointed in July, is tasked with leading the department’s Investigative Bureau. Brown has already been making headlines due to his involvement in ongoing investigations related to a mass shooting that occurred outside of Hush Lounge nearly three weeks ago. “I’m very honored to be a member of the Birmingham Police Department, honored to serve,” said Brown, who brings extensive experience from his 22 years with the FBI, including serving as Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the Birmingham Field Office.

Acknowledging the Officers’ Commitment

The swearing-in ceremony featured remarks from Birmingham Municipal Judge Andra Sparks, who delivered the oath of office to both deputy chiefs. She emphasized the heightened obligations that accompany their new roles, urging them to uphold standards of service to their community, state, and nation.

Mayor Woodfin also took the time to thank both Mauldin and Brown for their service, as well as their families for the sacrifices they will have to make. He shared an inspiring quote from Theodore Roosevelt, noting the importance of being in the arena of hard work, stating, “The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena.”

Police Chief Scott Thurmond showed confidence in the new deputy chiefs, noting their combined experience of 51 years in law enforcement and appreciating their swift adaptation to their new roles. “I’ve watched both of them as they entered into these new roles and have already seen their commitment, dedication, and drive to perform at a very high level,” Thurmond stated.

Focusing on Community Safety

Deputy Chief Mauldin emphasized that moving forward, the department aims to prioritize community engagement in its decision-making processes, stating, “Most importantly we’re going to lead with community first when we get ready to make any decisions.” He added that bolstering the number of officers on the street is a crucial step toward improving the city’s overall safety.

As the department works on increasing recruitment and retention rates in the face of staff shortages, both chiefs are optimistic about the potential impact. They aim to restore public trust and efficiency within the department while addressing violent crime rates head-on.

With both new deputy chiefs at the helm, the Birmingham Police Department is poised to tackle pressing issues in the community while fostering safer neighborhoods.