The City of Bay Minette officially swore in James Rosier Jr. as the city’s new police chief during a ceremony this week, marking a leadership transition for the Bay Minette Police Department after months under interim leadership.

City leaders, employees and residents gathered for the ceremony as Rosier outlined a vision centered on service, accountability and community trust. In remarks during the event, Rosier said the department’s success would be measured less by crime statistics and more by how secure residents feel in their neighborhoods.

“We will not be a department that chases statistics,” Rosier said in a news release from the city, adding that success will be measured by the perceived safety of our community.

City officials praised Rosier’s leadership style and community-focused approach, saying they believe his appointment will strengthen relationships between officers and residents while continuing efforts to keep the city safe.

The appointment follows a period of transition within the department that began Nov. 3, 2025, when then-Police Chief Al Tolbert resigned effective immediately as a new city administration took office, as GCM reported at the time. On the same day, Joshua Brown was sworn in as mayor and Jimmy Dean Stracener was named interim police chief.

In his resignation letter last year, Tolbert said he stepped down after “discussions regarding the city’s leadership and direction” to allow for “a smooth transition under the new administration.”

City officials also recognized Stracener for his service as interim chief since November. He will now serve as assistant police chief.

Officials credited Stracener with providing steady leadership during the transition and thanked the Police Chief Search Committee along with the mayor and City Council for their work throughout the selection process.

Bay Minette leaders said they are optimistic about the department’s future under Rosier’s leadership as the city continues efforts to promote public safety and strengthen community connections.