FOREST PARK, Ga. — Forest Park announced its new police chief Thursday, appointing a high-ranking member of the Clayton County Sheriff's Office. Brandon Criss will serve as the next chief after being unanimously approved at the City Council meeting on April 17.
Criss gave 11Alive his first interview about the position Friday.
“Clayton County is home. I’m ecstatic and ready to get to work," he said.
Criss most recently served as an assistant deputy chief in the Clayton County Sheriff's Office, serving on the agency's executive management team.
"I rose to assistant deputy chief. I was over a $32 million budget," he added.
Some of his responsibilities at the sheriff's office included "ensuring compliance with all day-to-day operational policies and state regulations, while also overseeing criminal investigations throughout the county."
But his career in law enforcement began nearly 20 years ago at the Riverdale Police Department.
He said he’s bringing all that expertise into his new role as Forest Park's police chief.
"Crime has been up – especially entering autos throughout the entire county. With my extensive background in criminal investigations, hopefully I can deter some of that crime," he added.
Criss was selected among 24 candidates. He said he has several goals in mind.
Within the police department, he hopes to improve morale, increase diversity within the agency, and fill their 19 officer vacancies.
“It is very close to about 10% [vacancies in the department] but I know there are some neighboring agencies that are hovering around 40 to 50% vacancies. I would consider us to be pretty low," he added.
He also plans on bringing in more bilingual staff to translate and provide their social media posts in both English and Spanish.
“I understand that the largest population is the African American population here in Forest Park, but the second is the Hispanic community. I’m going to embrace both," he said.
Outside the department’s doors, he's committed to being transparent and accessible. He added that his phone number will be made available for all residents to use.
“There's been lots of incidents in the past where law enforcement agencies attempted to cover things up. Good or bad," he explained. "By being transparent, it will build the community’s trust.”
The city said a swearing-in ceremony will be held on Thursday, May 4, at 7:30 p.m. at Living Faith Tabernacle at 5880 Old Dixie Highway. Those who want to attend are asked to RSVP by Monday, May 1 at 5 p.m. at this link.
In a statement, Forest Park Mayor Angelyne Butler said Criss brings a passion for public service to the job.
"Brandon brings energy, unique perspectives and a true passion for public service. We are thrilled to welcome him as the city's new police chief. His collaborative leadership style will be extremely valuable when it comes to recruiting top-tier talent, improving employee morale, providing departmental stability and remaining focused on the needs of our community," Forest Park Mayor Angelyne Butler said in a statement.
"Along with Brandon's commitment to work in Forest Park, his commitment to relocate and plant roots in Forest Park, in addition to his enthusiastic community based serve and protect policing, is not only what made him so unique, but most importantly, why he is the right person for such a coveted position," Butler added.