Mayor Walt Maddox Appoints Brent Blankley Executive Director of Public Safety

Mayor Walt Maddox has appointed Chief Brent Blankley Executive Director of Public Safety, effective January 19, 2026.

"Tuscaloosa's safety is our top priority," Mayor Walt Maddox said. "The challenges facing our E-911 dispatchers, firefighters, mental health social workers, and police officers have never been greater. Understanding this, our City Council authorized the creation of an Executive Director of Public Safety position to enhance the City's preparedness, training and responses to the threats facing our community. I am proud to appoint Chief Blankley to this role. Since he was appointed Police Chief in 2020, he has driven significant reductions in crime and proven himself as a dedicated and innovative leader."

Chief Blankley has served with the Tuscaloosa Police Department for nearly 20 years. He joined the department as a Patrol Officer in 2006. Shortly thereafter, he moved into Crime Prevention, where he helped develop programs including the Citizens Academy, which he served as the co-director of for six years. He has also served as Public Information Officer, Criminal Justice Intern Coordinator, Tuscaloosa County Crime Stoppers Coordinator, Midnight Shift Patrol Commander and Commander of Municipal Security. Chief Blankley holds a bachelor's degree in criminal justice from the University of North Alabama.

"This new role will allow me to continue serving Tuscaloosa with a focus on the City's broader public safety mission," Blankley said. "Long-term planning and coordination across all public safety agencies guarantees we'll maintain consistent services to the community as our City continues to grow."

Deputy Chief Severn Sanders Appointed Acting Chief of Police

Mayor Maddox has conditionally appointed Deputy Chief Severn "Sebo" Sanders as Acting Chief of the Tuscaloosa Police Department, effective January 19, 2026. Chief Sanders has accepted the offer, contingent on confirmation by the City Council.

"Chief Sanders brings decades of experience and a deep commitment to community policing," Mayor Maddox said. "I know he will continue to lead with professionalism and respect at the forefront."

Chief Sanders has served with the Tuscaloosa Police Department for 29 years, most recently as the Deputy Chief of Community Policing. In that role, he led community-focused operations including directing the Police Athletic League and supervising the Behavioral Intervention Team and School Resource Officers. Chief Sanders has also served in the Patrol Division, on SWAT, in the Narcotics Division, and on the West Alabama Narcotics Task Force.

"I am honored to accept this role to continue serving the Tuscaloosa community," Chief Sanders said. "Our priority will remain ensuring safety and continuing to build the trust of our citizens through respect and professionalism in every interaction."