City of Talladega Blog

(Talladega, AL) Talladega City Manager Derrick Swanson announced today that Captain Ronald McElrath has been named interim police chief.  

McElrath began his career with the Talladega Police Department (TPD) in 2001 as a jailer. In 2002, he attended the Northeast Alabama Law Enforcement Academy and became a police officer. He was promoted to patrol sergeant in 2010. He successfully worked his way through the ranks and served as patrol lieutenant before being named captain of operations in 2023. The Coosa County native also served in the US Navy Reserves for 10 years as a hospital corpsman and participated in Desert Storm. 

He will assume the role of interim police chief on August 1, 2024, following the retirement of Chief Diane Thomas. 

"We wish Chief Thomas all the best in her new endeavors and thank her for her outstanding leadership,” said City Manager Derrick Swanson. 

"The appointment of Captain McElrath as interim police chief will ensure a smooth transition as we prepare to begin the formal search process,” Swanson added. "McElrath is a dedicated leader who has been a valued member of the Talladega Police Department for over two decades." 

“My top priorities include serving and protecting the community,” said McElrath. “I am proud of our department and honored to be named interim police chief."