The Marietta Police Department recently celebrated a significant promotion within its ranks. In a ceremony held yesterday, Major Gretchen Ingram was honored for her ascent through the department, which was commemorated with a ceremonial pinning. Surrounded by approximately 50 attendees — including friends, family, and colleagues — Major Ingram's dedication to service was the focal point of the event. Highlighting this moment, Ingram's daughter had the honor of pinning her with the new badge, symbolizing the transition.
At the ceremony, Chief Beam and Deputy Chiefs Twaddell and Rutland presided over the proceedings, taking the opportunity not only to congratulate Ingram but also to acknowledge the support system that has undergirded her more than 25-year-long career. Deputy Chief Rutland shared that while the promotion represents a recognition of Ingram's achievements, it also signifies a new echelon of responsibility — one they are confident she is prepared to meet head-on. "The ceremony is more than just announcing she has earned a new title; it’s recognizing her years of dedicated service, proven leadership, and relentless commitment to duty," Rutland stated in a ceremony brief on the City of Marietta.
Major Ingram's history with the Marietta Police Department spans a diverse portfolio of roles and responsibilities from her start in February 1999. Her service record reads like a cross-section of specialized police work: Field Training Officer, Gang Resistance Education and Training (G.R.E.A.T.) Officer, School Resource Officer, community response, investigative roles, and her command of the Hostage Negotiation Team, to name a few. Additionally, Ingram has been part of critical regional task forces addressing child exploitation and internet crimes against children.
Her educational background is equally substantive. Ingram holds a master’s degree from Columbus State University and successfully completed the Command Officer’s Development Course through the Southern Police Institute. Her commitment to community safety and education is further underscored by her efforts to bring RADkids and RADwomen's self-defense programs to Marietta's residents. According to her profile on the Marietta government website, she has also earned a series of Georgia P.O.S.T. certifications that range across various law enforcement disciplines.
