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From Zero to Accredited: Dunwoody's Billy Grogan on Starting a City Police Department

From Zero to Accredited: Dunwoody's Billy Grogan on Starting a City Police Department

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 In this episode of UrbanEBB, host Rico Figliolini is joined by Billy Grogan, former Chief of Police in Dunwoody and now Senior VP at Sumter Local Government Consulting. With over 15 years of experience leading a nationally accredited department, Grogan recounts the high-stakes journey of launching Dunwoody’s police force in just 120 days—from policy creation and recruitment to integrating cutting-edge technology. He shares candid insights into the challenges and lessons learned in building a police department from the ground up.

Rico and Bill also discuss what Peachtree Corners should consider if it chooses to form its own police force, weighing the pros and cons of local control versus county-provided services. This episode offers a practical, behind-the-scenes look at the complexities of creating and sustaining a city-run police department—from staffing and budgeting to public trust and community impact.

Key Takeaways
  1. Start Big, Not Small – Grogan warns that underestimating a city’s long-term policing needs at launch leads to costly, continual catch-up.
  2. Technology is a Force Multiplier – Drones, body cams, and real-time crime centers now help cities like Dunwoody respond faster and smarter.
  3. Recruiting Has Changed – Officer retention has become more difficult post-Ferguson and COVID, requiring stronger benefits and creative incentives like housing stipends.
  4. Local Control Boosts Accountability – A city-run department serves its residents exclusively, fostering trust and deeper community ties.
  5. Civilian Roles are Critical – Grogan emphasizes the importance of hiring non-sworn staff for support roles, freeing officers to focus on enforcement.

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