Antonio Fletcher has been appointed Fort Valley State University’s new chief of police, effective May 1. Fletcher comes to FVSU from Southern Crescent Technical College in Griffin, Ga., where he served as the institution’s top law enforcement officer.

FVSU President Paul Jones said he welcomed Fletcher’s extensive law enforcement expertise, including his experience as a homicide investigator, polygraph examiner, Internal Affairs investigator, Gang Unit commander, SWAT Team member, and Patrol Watch commander.

“Chief Fletcher has the experience and insight as a veteran law enforcement officer and leader that will serve our campus community well,” Jones said. “I am confident he will be an outstanding addition to our university and a strong public safety advocate for our university.”

Fletcher, a native of Albany, Ga., began his law enforcement career at the Albany Police Department in 2001 after being honorably discharged from the U.S. Army. His career has also included positions as chief of police at Talladega College, Talladega Al.; deputy chief of police, Forest Park, Ga.; and police captain at Albany State University, Albany, Ga.

Fletcher credited his prior experience in law enforcement taught him the importance of servant leadership, community engagement, and transparency while applying 21st Century policing practices and principles.

“I am eager to become a part of the Fort Valley State University family,” Fletcher said. “I look forward to building on the accomplishments of our Public Safety team and deepening our relationships with all our students, faculty, staff, and community partners.”

Chief Fletcher holds a Master of Public Safety Administration degree from Columbus State University, a Master of Human Services Counseling: Executive Leadership degree from Liberty University, a Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies degree from Liberty University, and an Associates of Applied Science: Nursing degree from Canton College of Technology.

Chief Fletcher is a graduate of Georgia Command College, a member of the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police, a graduate of Georgia Chiefs School, a member of the Georgia Fraternal Order of Police, and a Certified GA POST (Police Officer Standard and Training) Instructor.

Chief Fletcher is married with one son.