Roedel Named Cottondale Police Chief

By: Shelia Mader

The Cottondale City Commission officially appointed Andrew Roedel as the city's new police chief Monday night, placing a veteran law enforcement officer with more than 26 years of experience at the helm of the department.

Roedel began his law enforcement career with the Marianna Police Department in September 1999, where he was sworn in by former Chief B.L. Palmer, whom he described as a significant influence early in his career. After nearly seven years with Marianna PD, he joined the Jackson County Sheriff's Office in April 2006 under then-Sheriff John P. McDaniel. He remained with the sheriff's office until 2019, serving under both McDaniel and later Sheriff Lou Roberts.

In 2019, Roedel accepted a position with the Bay County Sheriff's Office, where he worked under Sheriff Tommy Ford. He left law enforcement in early 2021 in an attempt to launch his own business, but the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic made that venture challenging. During his time away from policing, he worked in the private sector performing mechanic work and with a local well-drilling company before returning to law enforcement.

Roedel joined the Cottondale Police Department in February 2024 and has served under former Chief William Carley. During Carley's medical leave, Roedel stepped into a leadership role, overseeing the department's day-to-day operations as interim chief. He described the experience as a significant learning opportunity and a chance to apply the leadership skills he developed throughout his career.

While serving as interim chief, Roedel said he relied on more than two decades of law enforcement experience to guide the department. He noted that city officials and residents expressed confidence in the department's operations during the transition period.

Roedel's interest in law enforcement dates back to his childhood in South Florida, where he lived next door to the police chief of Boca Raton. The chief later became sheriff of Palm Beach County and served as one of Roedel's earliest inspirations for pursuing a career in public service.

Now leading the department permanently, Roedel brings experience from municipal policing, county law enforcement, supervisory roles, and interim command positions. His appointment comes after more than a quarter century in law enforcement and nearly two years serving the Cottondale community.

Congratulations to Chief Roedel on his appointment to lead the Cottondale Police Department.