New police chief named in DeKalb County

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) — DeKalb County has a new police chief.

CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson said Wednesday that interim Chief Greg Padrick would take over the role previously held by Mirtha Ramos.

In February, Ramos, the county’s first female police chief and longest-serving officer, said she was told to step down or be fired. An official reason was not given for this decision. Padrick has been serving as interim chief since her departure.

Padrick, a Marine Corps veteran, has been with the DeKalb County Police Department for nearly three decades, rising through the ranks of multiple divisions and serving in leadership positions.

“Chief Padrick brings an extraordinary depth of experience, proven leadership, and an unwavering commitment to public safety,” Cochran-Johnson said in a statement. “For 28 years he has served this county with integrity, and I am confident that under his leadership, the DeKalb County Police Department will continue to advance police excellence, innovation, transparency, and community-centered policing.”

In a statement, Padrick said he was “deeply honored” to continue serving residents.

“The DeKalb County Police Department is made up of exceptional men and women who exemplify professionalism, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to service,” he said. “I look forward to advancing our mission of keeping every community in DeKalb County safe while strengthening public trust and embracing innovation.”