Chattanooga Police Chief Bobby DoddChattanooga Police Chief Bobby Dodd is retiring, according to Chattanooga Mayor Andy Berke, who said he had accepted the chief's retirement letter.
Along with Dodd, nearly all of his command staff announced today to the administration that they would retire at the end of the year, two sources confirmed.
Deputy Chief Tommy Kennedy, Assistant Chief Kirk Eidson and Capt. Jeannie Snyder will retire Dec. 31. Dodd also will step down Dec. 31, and said in a release he plans to pursue opportunities outside of the public sector.
"I began my career with the city of Chattanooga in 1986 and I have enjoyed the many professional and personal friendships I have been fortunate enough to develop over the past three decades," Dodd said. "While I look forward to spending more time with my family and friends in retirement, I will miss working with and for such a great group of professional men and women that put on a badge and serve their communities."
"Chief Dodd has served the citizens of Chattanooga for over 29 years," Berke said. "I appreciate his commitment and professionalism, as an officer and as a leader of the Chattanooga Police Department (CPD), and I truly wish him the best of luck.
"I am forming a blue ribbon panel to participate in our search for a chief of police. These community members will volunteer their time and expertise as we choose the right leader for our Police Department."
Berke said he has named Donna Roddy, onsite health educator at BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee; Roger Dickson, a former magistrate and member of the law firm of Miller & Martin; and District Attorney Bill Cox to the panel.
Deputy Chief Stan Maffett, a more than 35-year veteran, will serve as the interim chief.