THOMASVILLE — Thomasville Police Chief Troy Rich announced Monday he will retire, effective Oct. 5

Rich, who was named chief of police in 2014, will retire with 30 years of service to the Thomasville community.

“After long, thoughtful consideration and prayer, I have decided to announce my retirement and move on to the next stages of my life,” Rich said. “This decision was one of the most difficult decisions I have had to make in my life, but God has directed me, and I am following His plan.”

Rich’s TPD career began when former Police Chief John Perry hired Rich as a patrol officer in 1990. Rich served in many capacities, including assignments in the narcotics division and bike team, where he was promoted to sergeant. In 2000, Rich was promoted to lieutenant/watch commander, and later to captain of the criminal investigations division. Rich was named assistant police chief in 2007, where he served seven years before being named police chief. 

Thomasville City Manager Alan Carson said the impact of Rich’s leadership has been significant for TPD. 

“Under Troy’s leadership, the police department has expanded upon its community-oriented policing strategy, which is the backbone of any successful police organization,” Carson said. “He has fostered partnerships, communication and trust within our community, and his own philosophy toward successful law enforcement practices has moved our department forward substantially. To say that his leadership will be greatly missed is a huge understatement.”

Rich expressed appreciation for Carson, who became city manager in January 2019.

“I want to thank (Mr.) Carson for his support and leadership,” the chief said. “He is a great leader, and he has supported me 100 percent during his tenure.”

During the next 11 weeks, Rich will continue to lead the organization and assist the city manager in transition of the department.

Rich said his retirement is a decision he and his wife made together “after much thoughtful consideration and prayer.”

“I think you know when it is time to retire and step away, and I feel I had reached the career goals I’d set for myself and our department. I am very much looking forward to this next stage of my life,” Rich said.

The chief’s primary focus now is on transition of TPD to new leadership. 

“This department is vital to this community and me, so I want to be sure I am doing everything possible to allow for a smooth transition,” Rich said. “After Oct. 5, I plan to take some time to enjoy retirement.”