OXFORD, AL — The City of Oxford recognized the decades-long service of Police Chief Bill Partridge while officially welcoming Daniel Phipps as the city’s new chief during the Oxford City Council meeting on April 28.
Partridge, who is retiring May 1, was honored for nearly four decades of service to the Oxford Police Department, including 19 years as chief and his role as Public Safety Director. During the meeting, city officials highlighted his contributions to the department’s growth, modernization, and regional collaboration efforts.
Incoming Chief Daniel Phipps spoke during the ceremony, reflecting on Partridge’s influence on his career and the department as a whole. He described Partridge as a mentor and leader whose vision helped shape law enforcement not only in Oxford but across the region and state.
A formal resolution, read by City Clerk Alan Atkinson, outlined Partridge’s career achievements, including mentoring generations of officers, expanding specialized units, and advancing public safety infrastructure. The resolution also recognized his role in the development of key facilities, including the East Metro Area Crime Center, a regional hub for law enforcement collaboration.
As part of the recognition, the City Council announced the renaming of the facility to the “Chief Bill Partridge East Metro Area Crime Center,” honoring his lasting impact on public safety and regional cooperation.
Partridge also received honors from multiple officials, including a congressional recognition entered on behalf of U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers, a resolution from the Calhoun County Commission, and recognition from members of the Alabama Legislature by Senator Keith Kelley.
Following the recognition, the council unanimously approved the promotion of Daniel Phipps to Chief of Police, a move recommended by Mayor Alton Craft. Phipps was sworn in during the meeting and received his badge from Partridge.
Phipps joined the Oxford Police Department in 2010 as a patrol officer and has advanced through the ranks, most recently serving as Deputy Chief. He previously served with the Talladega Police Department and holds a Master of Justice Administration from Faulkner University and a Bachelor of Applied Science in Criminal Justice from Jacksonville State University.
He is also a graduate of the FBI National Academy and Jacksonville State University’s Command College. In addition to his law enforcement career, Phipps has served in the United States Army Reserve, the Alabama Army National Guard, and currently serves in the Alabama Air National Guard.
During his remarks, Phipps expressed appreciation for his family, city leadership, and fellow officers, and affirmed his commitment to continuing the department’s standard of service and professionalism.
A reception followed the meeting, allowing community members and officials to celebrate Partridge’s career and welcome Phipps into his new role.
