Steven D. Anderson was selected as Chief of Police by Mayor Walt Maddox in August 2008. Anderson was sworn in on October 1, 2008, becoming the first African- American chief for the city’s police department. Chief Anderson has spent his entire law enforcement career with the Tuscaloosa Police Department, beginning as a patrol officer in 1994. Anderson moved quickly through ranks becoming an investigator, patrol sergeant, internal affairs lieutenant and captain.

Chief Anderson brings to the job a wealth of experience, a spirit of compassion and a dedication to equality. Our mission is to serve all people within our jurisdiction with respect, fairness, and compassion. We are devoted to the prevention of crime, the protection of life and property, and the preservation of peace, order, and safety. To safeguard the constitutional rights of every citizen and the quality of life they have grown to expect by insuring that federal, state, and local laws are enforced in a fair, consistent, and swift manner. To work closely with the residents, businesses, civic groups, and other agencies to solve the problems of crime and the fear of crime; to provide crime prevention and education program; by incorporating the principles of community and problem oriented policing.

To fulfill our mission, the Tuscaloosa Police Department is dedicated to maintaining an efficient and effective organization for the administration of police services. We resolve to provide a quality work environment and the development of its members through effective, proactive, positive leadership and training.