Mableton has selected Anita Allen as its first police chief as the city prepares to launch its own police department, with full operations targeted for June 1, 2027.
The Mableton City Council approved Allen in a unanimous 7-0 vote during a special called meeting Oct. 6. (watch the video of the meeting at the bottom of this article.
She will assume her duties in the coming weeks and help design, staff and launch the department.
Allen brings more than 25 years of law enforcement and public safety experience. She most recently served as police chief at Albany State University, overseeing public safety operations, emergency management, E911 dispatch and criminal investigations across three campuses, according to the release.
Her previous positions include public safety director and police chief at Fort Valley State University and a 12-year tenure with the Dougherty County Sheriff’s Office, where she served as a lieutenant, criminal investigator and public information officer.
“Selecting our first police chief is one of the most critical decisions in shaping Mableton’s future,” said Mayor Michael Owens. “Dr. Allen brings a combination of extremely high standards, operational expertise, and a deeply rooted commitment to community-centered policing. Her vision and proven record of collaborative leadership make her uniquely qualified to build a modern, responsive, and accountable police force that reflects the values and needs of Mableton.”
Allen served as the first Black woman president of the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police during its 2025-2026 leadership term, according to the city. She has also represented statewide police executive interests on the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council.
“Dr. Allen is an exceptional leader who understands the complexities of public safety,” said Public Safety Director Dr. Kerry Stallings. “Her background in inter-agency coordination, emergency planning, and workforce administration will be critical as we establish this department. I am confident that under her leadership, the Mableton Police Department will set a benchmark for safety, professionalism, and community trust.”
Allen gave the following statement in accepting the post, and was sworn in immediately after she spoke:
Good evening. Good evening. Good evening. Tonight is a great night.
To our ladies and gentlemen and distinguished guests and members of our beloved community, first and foremost, I want to give thanks to my Lord and savior, who is the head of my life and the source of my strength. Without his guidance and grace, I would not be standing here today.
I am deeply grateful for my family who are here with me in spirit, but to my husband, who has been my steadfast partner and support. Thank you so much for always being with me and being by my side.
This is truly an historic moment for Mableton, a turning point for our city story. Today, we are writing a new chapter together, one guided by faith, courage, and unity. The opportunities before us are being both exciting, inspiring, promising to not just a brighter and safer future, but a legacy of hope and progress for generations to come.
This milestone is a blessing for our citizens of Mableton, and together we will rise to meet it with purpose and determination.
As your new police chief, I pledge to lead with integrity, wisdom, respect for everyone. I am committed to ensuring that we provide the necessary police efforts to maintain and enhance community safety and always treating the citizens with dignity and fairness. Together, we will continue building a community rooted in trust, mutual respect, and service.
As a proud sister in blue to my surrounding law enforcement brothers and sisters in blue, I stand boldly with unwavering faith, knowing that I am not alone. Our bonds will be cherished, and our relationship will be the foundation of true progress.
To all of Cobb County, West the Sheriff’s Office, the police department, Austell, and any other law enforcement agency that is around me, it is my deepest hope that we build and strengthen our partnership and forge an unbreakable bond united together on the mission to serve and uplift Mableton’s community.
My roots are the legacy of working for the Daugherty County Sheriff’s Office, so I understand what that means.
To my mayor, council members, city manager, public safety director, and the beautiful citizens of Mableton, Georgia, I am ready spiritually, physically, and wholeheartedly to serve. Together, we will build a police department rooted in unwavery integrity, active partnership, and a powerful vision for a safer, stronger, and more united Mableton.
So let us move forward in faith, courage, and purpose. Thank you all for this incredible opportunity. Let’s get to work.
Allen holds a doctorate in practical theology from Andersonville Theological Seminary and advanced degrees in biblical studies. She graduated from the police academy at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College and holds Georgia POST certifications in peace officer training, instruction, management, supervision and jail operations.
“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.”