Alachua Names Sandusky Chief of Police

ALACHUA – The City of Alachua has named a new Chief of Police. Interim City Manager Mike DaRoza appointed Lt. Jesse Sandusky to the position effective Feb. 1, 2022. 

An 18-year veteran of the Alachua Police Department, Sandusky takes over for outgoing Chief Chad Scott, who resigned after 13-plus years.  Scott will be taking a position at the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office. 

Sandusky has served in many different capacities throughout his career, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to the position. He began his career in 2003 as an officer in the Patrol Division. 

“After we learned of Chief Scott’s plans, the choice became clear who needed to take the helm,” DaRoza said. “Jesse has grown alongside the department for nearly two decades, and has developed the necessary leadership and trust our community needs to take us to the next level.” 

With a strong interest in the investigative side of law enforcement, Sandusky served for several years as a Detective, and ultimately a Detective Sergeant within the Criminal Investigations Division before being promoted to the rank of Lieutenant and appointed as the Commander of the Administration Division. 

Sandusky, the long-time Public Information Officer for the Alachua Police Department, was elected President of the Florida Law Enforcement Public Information Officer Association where he served for two years. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for Peaceful Paths Domestic Violence Network. 

“Chief Sandusky is a trusted leader who has built important relationships in our community,” said Alachua Mayor Gib Coerper.  “He has a proven track record as a police officer and a problem solver, and I know he will be an effective leader for the Alachua Police Department.”

“I am honored to have this opportunity to lead such a great team of dedicated law enforcement professionals,” Sandusky said. “Together, we will continue the tradition of providing excellent law enforcement services to the residents and visitors of the City of Alachua. The safety of our citizens will always remain top priority.”

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