Sunday July 13th, 2025 6:57PM

Former longtime Cleveland Police Chief John Foster dies

By Will Daughtry News Reporter

The City of Cleveland is mourning the loss of a former longtime police chief.

The city announced today that former Police Chief John Foster passed away unexpectedly on Saturday due to a massive heart attack.

Foster began his career with the Cleveland Police Department in 1997 and was appointed chief in 2003, serving in that role for 17 years.

“Lacy and I were saddened to learn of the death of former Cleveland Police Chief John Foster,” Cleveland Mayor Josh Turner said. “Chief Foster served the citizens of Cleveland for 23 years, 17 as Chief of Police, including the first six months of my first term. I appreciate his service and dedication to Cleveland and the advice he provided me early in my administration."

Foster is remembered for his leadership and unwavering commitment to public service. Funeral arrangements will be handled by Barrett Funeral Home, with a date and time soon to be announced. A link to his obituary can be found here.

"Chief Foster was a dedicated and lifelong public servant. He shaped the Cleveland Police Department and the officers within,” current chief Jeff Shoemaker said. “His legacy lives on in the culture of professionalism and service he helped to instill in this department."

  • Associated Categories: Homepage, Local/State News
  • Associated Tags: North Georgia, Cleveland, white county, Cleveland Police Department
© Copyright 2025 AccessWDUN.com
All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission.