By Jeff Devine, Editor-in-Chief, Dale County Chronicle
MIDLAND CITY—Midland City officially welcomed Keith Gray as its new Chief of Police during a swearing-in ceremony held Friday, January 2, at 2 p.m. at the Midland City Senior Center.
Gray was sworn in alongside fellow police officers serving under his administration, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the Midland City Police Department.
The appointment follows last month’s 3–2 split vote by the Midland City Council approving Mayor JoAnn Grimsley’s selection of Gray to lead the department. Gray replaces outgoing Police Chief Willie Powell.
Grimsley addressed her decision publicly, emphasizing Gray’s extensive law enforcement background and professional integrity.
“Chief Gray had worked with the Midland City Police for a few years, and then he became the police chief of Level Plains before becoming the police chief of Gordon,” Grimsley said. “During the administration working with him, I learned just how much of a man of integrity he is. He was a fair person in his judgment as police chief there.”
When asked by the Dale County Chronicle for further insight into the decision-making process, Grimsley stressed that the appointment was not about removing Powell, but about qualifications.
“This was about finding the most qualified candidate and not firing outgoing Chief Powell,” she said.
Grimsley also confirmed that multiple applications and résumés were reviewed before a final decision was made.
“I spent time reviewing the résumés and applications that were submitted,” Grimsley said. “After reviewing them, I knew Gray was right for the job. He was the only one who held a certification as a police chief. His résumé truly stood out, and that, combined with how well I got to know him, led me to decide he was the best choice to serve and protect the people and municipality of Midland City.”
Additionally, Gray was appointed by Alabama Governor Kay Ivey to serve on the State of Alabama Private Investigation Board, which began in December 2024. Gray’s term on the board was an honor that added another qualification Grimsley had contemplated before making the final decision.
The appointment has drawn mixed reactions within the community. Some residents voiced concerns and opposition to the decision, while many others have expressed strong support for Gray and confidence in his leadership moving forward.
Gray now officially assumes command of the Midland City Police Department as the town looks ahead to his tenure as chief.
Incoming Police Chief Ketih Gray is Sworn in by Judge Kevin Walding on Friday, January 2, at the Midland City Senior Center.
