Dr. Anita Allen makes history as the first Black woman police chief in a Metro Atlanta city

Mableton, GA — Dr. Anita Allen has made history as the first Black woman to lead a police department in a Metro Atlanta city, following her unanimous appointment as Mableton’s inaugural police chief, the city announced.

City officials said the 7–0 vote marked a major milestone as Mableton prepares to launch its own police department and transition away from Cobb County’s law enforcement services by June 1, 2027.

Allen brings more than 25 years of experience, including leadership roles at Albany State University, Fort Valley State University and the Dougherty County Sheriff’s Office.

Dr Anita Allen Makes History as Mableton’s New Police Chief

Allen previously served as the first Black female president of the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police, earning statewide recognition for her leadership.

She also serves on the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council and has chaired the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities.

Moreover, she directed public safety operations across three campuses at Albany State University, overseeing emergency management, E911 dispatch and criminal investigations.

Building a New Department From the Ground Up

As chief, Allen will oversee the design, staffing and rollout of Mableton’s new police department.

The city expects to hire 70 officers and 10 civilian staff as it prepares for full operations in 2027.

City leaders said Allen’s appointment is critical to shaping a modern, community‑centered agency. Mayor Michael Owens called her selection “one of the most important decisions in Mableton’s future.”

“Dr. Allen brings a combination of extremely high standards, operational expertise, and a deeply rooted commitment to community-centered policing,” she continued.

Dr. Anita Allen Says She’s Focused on Trust and Community Engagement

During her introduction, Allen emphasized community policing, transparency and strong engagement across Mableton’s six districts.

She said trust between residents and police will guide her leadership. “If your community does not trust the department or its leader, that’s where problems begin,” she said.

Allen pledged to build a “stellar, strong, community‑engagement police department” committed to serving residents with fairness and dignity.

“I am deeply honored to be chosen as Mableton’s first Chief of Police,” said Dr. Anita Allen.

“Building a police department is a profound responsibility, and my priority will be establishing a culture of integrity, transparent communication, and dedicated service. I look forward to working side-by-side with Mayor Owens, Director Stallings, the City Council, and the residents of Mableton to create a safe, welcoming, and strong community.”