Altavista police chief to retire in January

Altavista’s police chief will retire in January after serving in the department for more than 35 years.

Chief Tommy Neal announced his retirement Thursday, effective on Jan. 31, according to a news release. The 64-year-old spent his entire law enforcement career at the Altavista Police Department and has served as its chief for the past 24 years.

Neal joined the department as a patrol officer in 1971. He was promoted to corporal before being named the department’s chief in 1984. Neal oversees 10 officers and a budget of more than $850,000.

Altavista Town Manager Waverly Coggsdale said in a news release that Neal helped upgrade training and equipment for the officers. He implemented an emergency response team and had cameras installed in patrol vehicles.

“Tommy has led the APD for the past 24 years and created great stability for the department and had provided tremendous service to our citizens,” Coggsdale said. “Chief Neal is a dedicated public servant and a strong advocate for the community.”

Neal served on the Central Virginia Criminal Justice Academy Board of Directors for more than 12 years. He also serves on the Campbell County Highway Safety Committee, the Campbell County Public Safety Committee and is a member of the Virginia Association of Chief of Police.

Neal also serves as vice mayor of Hurt and a member of town council.

Coggsdale said in a news release that the city is preparing to recruit Neal’s replacement.