Alabama City Hires Its First Police Chief
By Rick McCann
Blue RAM Media/Gulf Coast News
MAY 12, 2026
CENTER POINT, Ala. A Jefferson County city has begun forming a new police department and has hired its first police chief.
The City of Center Point has appointed Zandral Washington as their first police chief of its Public Safety Department, in what city officials are calling a milestone for the city.
The city, part of the Birmingham metro area, sits to the east of the city and has depended on the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office for its law enforcement.
Washington comes to Center Point after serving as deputy police chief for the University of Alabama Birmingham Police Department. The city said Washington will spearhead development of the city’s police department including building foundational policies and procedures, establishing operational frameworks, and developing relationships with local, county, and regional law enforcement agencies.
City officials noted that the creation of a municipal police department will be gradual and strategic, adding that financial limitations currently require a measured approach to building a fully functional department.
The law enforcement services to the community may continue to be a combination of city police and county deputies.
“Chief Washington’s appointment represents an important step forward for the City of Center Point,” the release said. “Her leadership, experience, and vision will help lay the groundwork for a professional and community-focused public safety department that reflects the needs and values of our residents.”
Washington expressed her gratitude for being selected for the role.
“I am honored to have been selected to serve as the City of Center Point’s first Police Chief,” she said. “This is an opportunity to build a strong foundation for the future while developing meaningful relationships within the community.”
A pinning and swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for Thursday, June 4, at 6:30 p.m. at Refresh Church Event Center, 117 12th Court NW in Birmingham. The city said the public is invited.
Copyright 2026 Blue RAM Media. All rights reserved.
