After over four decades serving in law enforcement, Police Chief Billy Grogan of Dunwoody is set to turn in his badge. Eric Linton, the Dunwoody City Manager, announced Grogan's impending retirement, effective June 1, 2024. Grogan, who kickstarted the Dunwoody Police Department back in 2008, is credited with molding it into one of the premier forces in both the state of Georgia and the nation.
"Chief Grogan started the Dunwoody Police Department from scratch and built one of the top law enforcement agencies in the state and nation," Linton praised. Grogan's journey in law enforcement began in 1981 at the Marietta Police Department and saw a meteoric rise to Deputy Chief before being named Chief of Police for a newly formed City of Dunwoody, according to Dunwoody’s official news release.
Recognized for his outstanding service, Grogan was named Outstanding Chief of the Year by the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police in 2023. Grogan's educational background is just as impressive, holding degrees from Kennesaw State University and boasting graduation from prestigious institutions like the FBI National Academy and the Senior Management Institute for Policing.
In an interview, Grogan reflected on his time with the department. "I have had the privilege of working alongside some of the most dedicated and professional individuals within the law enforcement community while in Dunwoody,” he stated. His books and law enforcement articles have made significant contributions to the field, and his "Top Cop Leadership" website continues to guide upcoming police leaderships.
Mayor Lynn Deutsch joined in expressing her gratitude, highlighting Chief Grogan's success in advancing community policing and setting a standard in public safety. Her sentiment echoes the accomplishments of a police chief who didn't just serve but actively engaged with the community through programs like Coffee with a Cop and National Night Out.
Grogan's post-retirement plans remain unknown.
