After a nationwide search, City Manager Russ Blackburn announced Capt. Tony Jones as Gainesville's new police chief at a press conference Wednesday afternoon.
Jones has worked at the Gainesville Police Department since 1975, most recently as interim police chief.
Jones, who graduated from the University of Alabama, served for the first time as interim chief from 1997 to 1998.
In addition to his 34 years with GPD, Jones serves as a board member in community organizations such as the Boys & Girls Club and the Black on Black Crime Task Force.
"Tony brings a tremendous amount to the City of Gainesville," Blackburn said.
Out of 93 applicants for the position, five "highly qualified" applicants were interviewed, according to Blackburn.
"It's been an exhaustive process," Blackburn said, adding that the selection process has garnered more public interest than any issue he's faced as city manager.
Jones was appointed interim police chief on July 6, following the retirement of former police Chief Norman Botsford on April 16.
Botsford, who served as GPD chief for 10 years, retired amid controversy surrounding several GPD officers, including two who were removed from the force for having sex with prostitutes while on duty.
Blackburn pointed to Jones' strong sense of integrity as a leading quality that will ensure Jones' success.
"I look forward to fulfilling many of the community policing initiatives that I am currently involved with to strengthen and help our department become the very best in the state," Jones said.
Blackburn wrote in a press release that the best decision he could make was to keep the current team in place under Jones' leadership.
Jones will serve a 12-month commitment as police chief, effective immediately.
After Jones' commitment expires, Jones will meet with Blackburn to review his tenure, the press release said.
"I think right now is a pivotal time for the Gainesville Police Department," Jones said.
He added that his greatest strength as police chief will be in forming partnerships.
"Tony has a motto: to not only protect and serve, but in partnership with the community,'" Blackburn said.
GPD spokesman Lt. Keith Kameg could not be reached for comment by press time.
