Gulfport names Adam Cooper as new police chief, starting May 1

The city of Gulfport will soon have a new police chief.

“After a thorough nationwide search with highly-qualified internal and external candidates, I am proud to announce Commander Adam Cooper as our next chief of police,” said Mayor Billy Hewes in a press release. “He has committed his professional career to public safety and serving this city. Adam’s dedication, internal knowledge, and integrity make him the perfect fit to lead our police force moving forward.”

Cooper has been working in Gulfport for 27 years, according to the press release.

He started as a community service technician in 1995.

He has previously served as a sergeant and lieutenant in the Criminal Investigations Division, a captain and most recently commander of operations since 2018.

“I want to thank Mayor Billy Hewes for this opportunity to lead the agency. I am excited and ready to work with our officers, community partners, and citizens who entrust us to keep Gulfport a safe and great place to live, work and visit,” Cooper said in the announcement.

The recommendation for appointment is now being sent to the Gulfport City Council for ratification on April 19. with his first day as chief scheduled for May 1.

Cooper got the position after the retirement of former Chief Chris Ryle.

This story was originally published April 14, 2022 at 5:54 PM.