Roedel Promoted to Corporal at Cottondale Police Department

By: Shelia Mader

The Cottondale Police Department is promoting Officer Andrew Roedel to the rank of Corporal. With more than 26 years in law enforcement, Roedel brings a long record of service and leadership to his new role.

Roedel began his law enforcement career with the Marianna Police Department in 1999, where he was sworn in by Chief B.L. Palmer. After several years with Marianna PD, he joined the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office in 2006, working under Sheriffs John P. McDaniel and Lou Roberts until 2019.

Before joining Cottondale PD, Roedel spent time at the Bay County Sheriff’s Office, working under Sheriff Tommy Ford. In 2021, he stepped away from law enforcement to try his hand at running a small business, but like many others, he found COVID-19 made it a difficult time for new ventures.

“I was in the private sector for a couple years doing mechanic work and working with Thomas Basford’s well-drilling company,” Roedel said. “But law enforcement was always where my heart was.”

Roedel joined the Cottondale Police Department in February 2024, serving under Chief Carley. Earlier this year, he stepped in as interim chief when Chief Carley was out on medical leave.

“It was a different experience,” Roedel said. “I’d worked in mid-level supervision before, but I’d never been in charge. It was a steep learning curve, but it was good experience. The citizens, city commission, and mayor were all happy with how things went, and that meant a lot.”

Roedel credits his inspiration for public service to his childhood in South Florida, where he lived next door to the police chief of Boca Raton, who later became the sheriff of Palm Beach County.

“He was one of my main inspirations to go into law enforcement,” Roedel said with a laugh. “Although when I was really young, I wanted to be a garbage man. I thought it was the coolest thing to hang off the back of a truck and throw the cans in.”

Looking ahead, Roedel said he’s excited about the opportunity his new position brings.

“I think it’s an awesome opportunity to go out there and show the community that I’m here to stay,” he said. “This promotion gives the chief some flexibility, knowing there’s a

supervisor available if he’s away. It’s a chance to stretch my wings and serve in a leadership role.”

Roedel’s promotion was made official at Monday night’s Cottondale City Commission meeting.