Anniston, AL – The Anniston Police Department has proudly served as a cornerstone of community safety since its inception in 1885. With a commitment to professional law enforcement services, the department aims to foster a safe environment for the City of Anniston’s residents, which totals approximately 41,007 in both city limits and surrounding police jurisdiction areas.
At the helm of the department is Chief Nick Bowles, who has dedicated 24 years to the force. Chief Bowles, who ascended to the position of Chief of Police in July 2020, has a wealth of experience, having served in various ranks including patrolman and lieutenant. He is a graduate of the Northeast Alabama Law Enforcement Academy and holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Central Christian College of Kansas. His proactive leadership has led to significant improvements in departmental policies and practices, including the production of the department’s first recruiting video and achieving accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies.
The department consists of 84 sworn positions and nine civilian roles, all dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of the community. In 2024, the Anniston Police Department responded to 42,340 service calls, showcasing its active involvement in the community. Notably, only four percent of these calls were related to Part 1 crimes, reflecting a commitment to proactive policing and community engagement.
In terms of crime statistics, the Anniston Police Department has made remarkable strides. The report highlights a 3.90% decrease in Part 1 crimes compared to the previous year, with significant reductions in both property and violent crimes. Specifically, the report shows a 26.41% decrease in property crime and a 51.14% decrease in violent crime when compared to the peak rates observed in 2016.
The department recorded 387 violent crimes and 1,240 property crimes during the year, with a clearance rate of 66.67% for violent crimes and 43.49% for property crimes. These figures indicate effective law enforcement efforts and community collaboration, which are essential in enhancing public safety.
The Anniston Police Department remains dedicated to community service beyond law enforcement duties. In 2024, the department successfully organized a food drive and distributed over 1,500 toys to nearly 80 families, positively impacting around 140 children during the holiday season. These initiatives reflect the department’s commitment to building relationships and trust within the community.
Additionally, the department has invested in youth engagement programs, pairing cadets with mentors for practical experiences through classroom activities and ride-alongs. These efforts emphasize core values of community, honor, integrity, and professionalism, aiming to inspire young people to contribute positively to their communities.
In terms of traffic safety, the department conducted 10,101 traffic stops in 2024, resulting in 447 felony arrests and 1,740 misdemeanor arrests. Notably, 21% of traffic stops resulted in citations, underscoring the department’s commitment to road safety. The police department’s proactive traffic enforcement has contributed to a safer environment for all residents.
As the Anniston Police Department moves forward, it remains focused on innovative policing strategies, continuous training, and effective leadership to further reduce crime and enhance community safety. Chief Bowles stated that he and his team are dedicated to building on the successes of the past year while addressing the evolving needs of the community. He also expressed that the Anniston Police Department is not just about enforcing the law but is also deeply committed to serving the community and fostering a safe environment for all its residents.
