A familiar face has been appointed to Senatobia’s top police spot.
Harold “Hal” Vanderford was promoted to city police chief following a 4-1 vote by aldermen during executive session Monday, Sept. 29. Alderman Kevin Dear casted a dissenting vote due to his support for one of the other the top four candidates that interviewed for the job.
Vanderford, 59, will officially assume duties Monday, Oct. 13 replacing Blake Warren who has served as interim chief since Richard Chandler was not reappointed by city leaders in July.
Warren was also a finalist for the chief’s spot and will continue in his role as deputy chief of Senatobia Police Department.
“One of my main goals is reestablishing and solidifying trust with the public,” Vanderford said. “We want to spend more time training and educating our officers so they will make good decisions on the street and with the public.”
A 29-year veteran of law enforcement, Vanderford brings an extensive wealth of knowledge, leadership and a strong commitment to community-focused policing. He has served as lieutenant of operations for Senatobia Police Department since December 2023. Previously, Vanderford was a sergeant with the Southaven Police Department for 10 years.
Vanderford, who was born and raised in Greenville, Miss., has led specialized units including K-9, undercover narcotics, and SWAT among other roles demanding discipline, accountability and sound decision making under pressure throughout his extensive career.
“We look forward to Chief Vanderford’s valued leadership as head of our police department,” said Senatobia Mayor Greg Graves. “He has a reputation for being firm, fair and focused and is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of professionalism within the department.”
Vanderford said he is looking forward to the everyday challenges of the job.
“I appreciate the trust our city leaders have allowing to me to be in this position,” he explained. “We are in the process of putting some things in place that will be positive instead of negative. I want to assure citizens of Senatobia our department will remain responsive and dedicated to serving this city.”
