Southlake Welcomes Ashley Casey as New Chief of Police

Southlake, TX – The City of Southlake has named Ashley Casey as its new Police Chief, following a distinguished 24-year career in law enforcement with the Southlake Police Department. Chief Casey, who has served in a range of leadership roles within the department, most recently as Interim Police Chief, officially stepped into her new position this June.

Chief Casey’s long history with Southlake began in December 2000 when she joined the department as a Police Officer and Public Safety Officer. Over the years, she rose through the ranks, serving as Police Lieutenant and Divisional Commander from 2003 to 2015 and then as Assistant Police Chief from 2015 to 2024. In her role as Assistant Chief, Casey oversaw key divisions such as Patrol, Criminal Investigations, Professional Standards, and Training, helping to modernize the department through the implementation of new technologies and officer training programs.

Before becoming Southlake’s Chief of Police, Casey served briefly as Interim Chief between April and June 2024, guiding the department through a period of transition with professionalism and stability.

Extensive Experience and Community Involvement

Throughout her career, Casey has maintained a strong connection to the Southlake community. She has been actively involved in initiatives such as the Southlake DPS Citizens Academy, Citizens on Patrol (COPs), and Volunteers in Policing (VIPs), fostering relationships between the police and the public. Her efforts in community engagement are a cornerstone of her leadership style, emphasizing transparency, collaboration, and public trust.

Education and Professional Accomplishments

Casey’s extensive education and training have equipped her with the skills necessary to lead a modern police department. She holds a Master’s Degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice from the University of Texas at Arlington and a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Midwestern State University. Additionally, she is a graduate of the FBI National Academy, the Senior Management Institute for Police (SMIP), and the Institute for Law Enforcement Administration (ILEA) Management College. Casey also holds a TCOLE Master Peace Officer certification and is affiliated with prominent law enforcement organizations, including the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) and the Texas Police Chiefs Association (TPCA).

Throughout her career, Casey has received numerous awards and honors. She was named Deputy Director of the Yearfor three consecutive years (2018, 2019, and 2020) and was previously recognized as Police Officer of the Year in 2003. In 2008, she was selected as a City Ambassador to Tome City, Japan, representing Southlake on an international stage.

Leading Southlake Forward

As Chief of Police, Casey will continue her focus on community outreach and modernizing the department. She is dedicated to ensuring that Southlake remains a safe and welcoming community, while also promoting diversity within the department and enhancing mental health crisis training for officers.

For more information about Chief Casey’s upcoming initiatives and community engagement efforts, residents are encouraged to visit the Southlake Police Department’s official website.