Lilburn Police Chief Bruce Hedley recently retired after 12 years in the city police department's top position.
According to a social media post from the Lilburn Police Department, Hedley retired on July 7 after 15 years with the city and 12 years as chief.
Former City Manager Bill Johnsa named Hedley to the position in April 2011 after the termination of former chief John Davison's contract.
"Under Hedley’s tenure, crime has decreased drastically and the city enjoys that level of safety to this day," the social media post reads. "Hedley was routinely praised by past and current city officials for maintaining a safe community."
Crime statistics show a 48% decrease in Part 1 crimes in the city over the past decade. These include homicides, robberies and burglaries.
“Hedley got his officers to embrace an approach that’s keen on community engagement,” City Manager Jenny Simpkins said. “It’s not unusual to see our officers in our City Park talking to citizens or playing catch with youngsters. They are respected in the community and they have earned it, in part, due to Hedley’s program. We are safe in Lilburn.”
Hedley won the Gwinnett County Chamber's Leadership Award last year for his efforts in community-oriented engagement. He was also a past president of the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police.
Stockbridge Assistant Police Chief Glenn Kalish is serving as Interim Police Chief in the wake of Hedley's departure.
Kalish, a 28-year law enforcement veteran, will serve as Interim Chief until Sept. 1, then return to full duty in Stockbridge.
"A search will be conducted for a permanent replacement in Lilburn," a social media post from the agency reads.
