MONTGOMERY — The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is pleased to announce several leadership promotions, while simultaneously honoring and congratulating those who
have made the decision to retire following a successful and rewarding career in law enforcement.
Scottie Chandler, ALEA’s former Deputy Secretary, announced his retirement to the agency in March. Chandler has years of extensive law enforcement experience, beginning with his service as an officer with both the Brantley and Luverne Police Departments, as well as Chief of both ALEA’s Services Division and SBI’s Vice and Special Operations.
ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor said, “I am greatly appreciative of Scottie’s valuable counsel and leadership over the years. He has been a huge asset to this agency, and I have thoroughly enjoyed working with him and wish him the best in his future endeavors.”
On April 1, Secretary Taylor appointed John Q. Hamm as the new Deputy Secretary. Hamm
previously served as Director of ALEA’s State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) and has more than
30 years of impressive law enforcement experience.
“I am proud to appoint John Q. Hamm as the new Deputy Secretary, and I am extremely confident in his leadership abilities and his continued vision of excellence for the agency,” Secretary Taylor said.
Secretary Taylor also announced the appointment of Chris Inabinett as the new Director of SBI. Director Inabinett started his career in law enforcement with the Florala Police Department and most recently served as SBI’s Chief of Vice and Special Operations.
“I am honored that Governor Ivey and Secretary Taylor have the trust and confidence in me to lead the State Bureau of Investigation,” Director Inabinett said. “I look forward to working with the great men and women of this organization, as well as with other law enforcement agencies to provide services and assistance to the citizens of Alabama.”
After 36 years in law enforcement, Colonel Charles Ward also has announced his retirement as Director of ALEA’s Department of Public Safety (DPS), effective April 30. Colonel Ward was appointed Acting Director in November 2016, then Director in May of 2017. He has served as a member of DPS since 1985, working his way through the ranks as a well-respected and beloved law enforcement officer.
Secretary Taylor said, “Colonel Ward has selflessly served the citizens of this state for many years and has proudly led DPS with precision and integrity. I am extremely grateful for all he has done for this agency, and I am confident his replacement is another outstanding leader that will continue to move ALEA in the right direction.”
On March 25, Secretary Taylor announced Ward’s successor, Captain James “Jimmy” Helms, who will assume the position as Colonel and Director of DPS effective May 1. Captain Helms began his career with the Montgomery Police Department and has invested 30 years of hard work, determination and commitment to law enforcement and ALEA. Prior to his appointment, he served as the Director of Training at the Alabama Criminal Justice Training Center, in Selma.
In addition to the transitions in agency leadership, Secretary Taylor announced Stephen Tidwell as ALEA’s Director of Protective Services. Tidwell formerly served as the Division’s Chief. The Protective Services Division comprises three units – Capitol Patrol, Dignitary Protection and Aviation.
