Cobb County’s Board of Commissioners has named James D. Ferrell as the new Chief of Police following a unanimous vote. Ferrell, who has served as Interim Police Chief since April, steps into the role with 32 years of law enforcement experience, all within Cobb County.
“When I started in this department 29 years ago, I never thought I’d be standing here today,” Ferrell said during the announcement event. “I would like to thank our Board of Commissioners for taking careful consideration and deliberation in this search. I know it is not an easy choice to choose someone for Chief of Police.”
Cobb Public Safety Director Mike Register reflected on Ferrell’s career path. “To see him grow throughout the years to become Chief of Police has been amazing,” Register said. “They couldn’t have made a better choice. I look forward to all he will do.”
After his swearing-in, Ferrell addressed his priorities for the department, emphasizing both internal support and community relations. He credited department members for its reputation: “one of the best departments in the state.” He added that his focus would be on expanding community outreach and strengthening relationships within the agency.
“I truly believe connection with the community is the key to success if you want a safer county,” Ferrell said. “You have to have open and transparent communication with the people you serve. The more you can do that, the safer our county will be.”
Ferrell also highlighted plans to provide officers with necessary resources and opportunities for wellness and professional development, noting technological advances make this “one of the most exciting times in law enforcement.” His appointment was effective immediately; he now leads about 700 officers and staff.
Cobb County continues to see growth in its population, as local schools enrolled 115,076 students during the 2022-23 school year—a figure representing less than a 0.1% increase from the previous year according to Georgia Department of Education data (https://www.gadoe.org/). Demographically, white students comprised 33% of Cobb County’s student body during that period (https://www.gadoe.org/).
