Garcia appointed as new Olive Branch Police Chief
Photo: Mayor Ken Adams congratulates Police Chief-designate Carlos Garcia Thursday afternoon. (Bob Bakken/DeSotocountynews.com)
OLIVE BRANCH, MS – Mayor Ken Adams and the City of Olive Branch officially announced the appointment of Carlos E. Garcia as the next Chief of Police during a pinning ceremony held earlier today. Garcia, a veteran of the department with over two decades of service, will officially assume his new duties at the end of the calendar year.
The transition comes as current Chief Bill Cox prepares for retirement. Mayor Adams expressed deep gratitude for Cox’s service, noting that the retiring chief is looking forward to spending more time with his family after a distinguished career in law enforcement.
A Legacy of Local Service
Chief-designate Garcia is a familiar face to the Olive Branch community. Originally from Cicero, Illinois, Garcia joined the Olive Branch Police Department in March 2000. Over the last 24 years, he has risen through nearly every rank in the department, including:
- Patrolman and Field Training Officer
- Street Crime Lieutenant and Block Commander
- Patrol Captain
- Deputy Chief
Mayor Adams highlighted Garcia’s deep roots in public service, noting that his wife, Glenda Garcia, served the city’s fire services for 25 years.
A Vision for Modern Policing
During the ceremony, which was attended by leaders from other DeSoto County police departments and the Sheriff’s Office, Adams and Garcia emphasized that public safety is a “team effort.”
“Chief Garcia brings not only extensive experience but also a deep understanding that modern policing is more than enforcement alone,” Mayor Adams stated. “It is about leadership, accountability, transparency, and partnership.”
Addressing the challenges of recruitment and city growth, Garcia told DeSoto County News there is a renewed focus on training and maintaining strong regional partnerships with neighboring agencies to ensure rapid response times as Olive Branch expands toward growing areas of the city.
Transition Timeline
Chief Bill Cox will remain at the helm through December, with Garcia officially taking command as the new year begins. Garcia thanked his predecessor for his mentorship and promised the citizens of Olive Branch will be served by a department focused on integrity and community trust.
Key Points
- New Leadership: Carlos E. Garcia appointed as Olive Branch Chief of Police.
- Effective Date: Garcia assumes the role at the end of the current calendar year.
- Retirement: Chief Bill Cox is retiring to spend more time with family.
- Experience: Garcia is a 24-year veteran of the department, rising from patrolman to Deputy Chief.
- Core Focus: The new administration will prioritize community partnerships, officer retention, and inter-agency cooperation.
