Dougherty County Police Chief Jackie Battle plans to retire in June

ALBANY — Toward the end of a 75-minute-long work session of the Dougherty County Commission on Monday, County Administrator Michael McCoy announced the planned retirement of Dougherty County Police Chief Jackie Battle.

McCoy, who said he received notice from Battle on Friday, said the DCP chief’s retirement becomes effective June 7. Battle officially took on her current role in 2013, with the retirement of Chief Don Cheek.

Serving as the assistant chief prior to Cheek’s retirement, she had a brief stint as the department’s interim chief before the “interim” was eventually removed from her title.

“I think this is the time to step aside,” Battle said. “If I can do anything with the transition, I will.”

Battle was asked by the commission who she might endorse as the new chief. She mentioned Kenneth Johnson, who has been serving as the DCP’s assistant chief since 2015.

“I know you will make that decision on your own, but I have confidence he would carry on (the foundation that has been built),” she told the commission.

Commission Chairman Chris Cohilas said there would be discussion at an upcoming meeting of the board to evaluate the available options in finding a successor, adding that an opportunity will likely be taken to more formally recognize Battle for her service.

Battle said she is still evaluating what her plans for retirement will be, but she indicated it is likely she will continue to serve the community in another role.

“(I will probably) do volunteer work for the community,” she said.

The outgoing chief’s retirement will put a cap on 38 years of service in law enforcement. She was the county’s first female police chief.

Jennifer Parks