Daniel Phipps took the oath of office as Oxford Chief of Police on Tuesday, April 29, 2026, during the regular session of City Council.

Mayor Alton Craft presented the recommendation to promote Phipps from his deputy chief position to the Oxford City Council, which unanimously ratified his recommendation.

Phipps was sworn into office and received his badge from Oxford Chief of Police Bill Partridge, who is retiring after 19 years as chief and a total of 39 years of dedicated service to the department effective May 1, 2026.

“Deputy Chief Daniel Phipps has consistently demonstrated the leadership and vision necessary to lead this department,” Partridge said. “I fully support his appointment as chief effective May 1, 2026, and I am confident he will serve with distinction and continue to strengthen our agency and the community we serve. He will continue our motto: First Class Protection and Service.”

“It’s all yours,” Partridge said as he handed Phipps his new badge.

Phipps addressed the audience with appreciation for all who assisted him as he enters his new position.

“I want to thank God who guided me to this moment and blessed me with the opportunities and experience that has shaped my life and career,” Phipps said.

The new chief also thanked his parents and his wife, Christie, “who stood beside me through countless long hours with the police department as well as numerous military deployments over the last 20 years.”

“Her unwavering sacrifice and encouragement made it possible for me to serve both my community and my country,” Phipps said.

He also thanked his son, Hank, “for keeping me grounded and reminding me every day why service to others matters.”

Phipps thanked Mayor Alton Craft and members of the city council “for the trust and confidence you have placed in appointing me.”

“I am fully committed in serving the community with integrity, professionalism, and dedication,” he said.

Phipps also addressed the members of the Oxford Police Department, thanking them for their “hard work, commitment, and professionalism.”

“I am proud to serve along side each of you,” he said. “You are the reason this department is recognized as the finest law enforcement agency in the state of Alabama. I look forward to working together as we move the department into the future.”

Phipps grew emotional in recognizing Partridge as “a mentor, a leader, and a trusted source of guidance throughout my career.”

“His leadership and vision have shaped not only this department, but law enforcement throughout the region and across the state,” he said. “He leaves behind a legacy of a standard of excellence that I can only hope to continue.”

Phipps then had a surprise for his predecessor.

“I have asked the city council to add a resolution to tonight’s agenda,” he said.

City Clerk Alan Atkinson read the resolution, which reviewed Partridge’s long and distinguished career, to the overflowing council chamber before adding the final honor.

“Be it further resolved in recognition of his lasting impact,” the resolution concluded, “the East Area Metro Crime Center shall hereby be renamed ‘The Chief Bill Partridge East Area Metro Crime Center,’ ensuring that his legacy of innovation and service will continue to inspire future generations.”

Partridge was also given honors by Shea Miller, representing U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers who entered an honor for Partridge in the Congressional Record; Calhoun County Commissioner Danny Shears, who brought a resolution from the County Commission commending Partridge’s service; and state Sen. Keith Kelley and state Rep. Randy Wood, who presented Partridge with a resolution from the Alabama State Legislature.

A reception for Partridge was held at the conclusion of the city council meeting.