After spending 13 months as interim, Ron McElrath was sworn in Monday morning as Talladega’s permanent police chief. This appointment arrives as an important moment for the city’s local government and law enforcement.
McElrath sworn into permanent status as police chief

Key Takeaways:
- Ron McElrath served as interim chief for 13 months
- The swearing-in took place on a Monday morning
- The original report was published by the Anniston Star
- The news pertains to local government and law enforcement
- The publication date is 2025-09-30 15:59:00
An Official Transition
After 13 months employed in an interim capacity, Ron McElrath was sworn in Monday morning as Talladega’s permanent police chief. The ceremony officially secures his leadership role within the Talladega Police Department, marking the end of a lengthy probationary period.
From Interim to Permanent
This appointment highlights the city’s confidence in McElrath’s abilities to guide its law enforcement. Serving in an interim position often means working to earn the public’s trust as well as that of local officials. Now, the removal of “interim” from his title underscores Talladega’s satisfaction with his performance.
A Civic Milestone
The story, originally reported by the Anniston Star, falls under the categories of politics and crime—two spheres that often intersect in discussions about policing and community safety. McElrath’s transition from interim to permanent status reflects a local government move intended to stabilize leadership within the department.
Looking Ahead
With McElrath’s permanent appointment, Talladega enters a new phase in its law enforcement governance. Although the details of his upcoming initiatives remain undisclosed in the original report, the city’s decision is a clear indication of trust in McElrath’s approach and leadership.