Governor Bentley Appoints John Richardson as Acting Director of Public Safety

MONTGOMERY – Governor Robert Bentley on Tuesday announced John Richardson has been appointed to serve as the Acting Director of the Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS).

“For nearly three decades, John Richardson has been a dedicated law enforcement officer,” Governor Robert Bentley said.  “He is a strong leader and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Alabama Department of Public Safety. I appreciate his willingness to serve and continue our efforts to streamline Alabama’s law enforcement agencies into one efficient department.”

In 1988, Richardson began his career in state law enforcement as an agent with the ABC Enforcement Division where he was assigned to the Narcotics Bureau. As an undercover narcotics agent, he worked with other state and federal law enforcement agencies resulting in hundreds of arrests and convictions. Most recently, Richardson served as the Assistant Director of ABC’s Enforcement Division. During Richardson’s tenure at ABC he was responsible for strategic oversight, daily operations of the division including implementing and maintaining organizational goals and objectives established by the executive and legislative branches. In addition to his extensive law enforcement career in Alabama, Richardson served in the United States Marine Corps from 1981-1985.

“I want to express my sincere appreciation to Governor Bentley for his confidence in me and for affording me the opportunity to lead the Department of Public Safety,” Richardson said. Since 1935, the department has played a pivotal role in state law enforcement and the protection of Alabama citizens.  As we move forward with the consolidation of state law enforcement in the coming months, I pledge to continue this longstanding commitment to the citizens of Alabama, while working toward providing a more effective and efficient department.”

The Department of Public Safety will become a part of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency January 1, 2015.

The appointment of John Richardson is effective immediately.