Birmingham’s Police Chief Transition: Scott Thurmond Takes Deputy Role at UAPD
Birmingham – Retiring Birmingham Police Chief Scott Thurmond has been appointed as the new deputy chief of the University of Alabama Police Department (UAPD). Thurmond’s final day with the Birmingham Police Department (BPD) is set for Wednesday, and he will officially start his new duties in Tuscaloosa on December 2.
Who Is Scott Thurmond?
Thurmond, aged 50, has devoted 25 years to the Birmingham Police Department, showcasing his extensive experience in law enforcement. He served as the chief of police from 2022 to 2024 before announcing his retirement last month. His departure from BPD will transition leadership to Deputy Chief Michael Pickett, who has been appointed to fill the interim chief role, while Captain Edmond Hanks moves up to interim assistant chief.
What Will Thurmond Do at UAPD?
In his new position, Thurmond will assist UAPD Chief John Hooks in managing daily operations of the police department. His responsibilities will include implementing policies, goals, and procedural standards. As deputy chief, Thurmond will oversee various divisions, including the Patrol and Traffic Divisions, Off-Campus Unit, and Canine Unit, along with coordinating special events. He will also be responsible for reviewing police policies and making suggestions for improvements, and will step in as acting chief when necessary.
Thurmond’s Background and Qualifications
Thurmond’s law enforcement career began at the Birmingham Police Department in 1998. He worked his way up through command positions in both the Patrol and Investigative Bureaus before becoming chief. His recent accomplishments include graduating from the FBI National Executive Institute in 2023 and receiving the FBI-LEEDA Trilogy Award in 2024, which recognizes completion of advanced leadership training programs.
Holding a Bachelor of Science in sociology from the University of Montevallo, Thurmond is well-equipped for his new role, according to the UAPD Chief. Hooks praised Thurmond, stating, “Chief Scott Thurmond is a remarkable police leader who has served his community with dedication, professionalism, and integrity for many years.” He expressed confidence that Thurmond’s experience and commitment to public safety would benefit the University of Alabama community.
Thurmond’s Vision for UAPD
Upon his selection, Thurmond expressed gratitude and enthusiasm for the opportunity. “It is an honor and privilege to have been selected to serve as deputy chief of The University of Alabama Police Department,” he stated. He emphasized his eagerness to collaborate with the department’s officers and to engage with faculty, staff, and students at the university. “The University of Alabama Police Department is an excellent police department, and I am elated to be part of the team,” he added.
The Significance of Leadership Changes
As Birmingham faces ongoing challenges, including rising crime rates, this transition in police leadership is noteworthy. The city recently recorded a total of 145 homicides in 2024, marking the highest count in recent history, further emphasizing the need for effective law enforcement strategies. Thurmond’s extensive background is expected to provide valuable insights and leadership as he navigates his new role in a university setting.
Conclusion
The transition from Birmingham to Tuscaloosa marks a significant moment in Scott Thurmond’s career and presents a new chapter for the University of Alabama Police Department. As he prepares to take on his new role, the community looks forward to the impact of his leadership and experience in enhancing public safety on campus.
