HPD Chief Jordan Carter reaches ‘highest level of achievement’ in state program

The Journal-Record recently received correspondence from Center for Best Practices in Law Enforcement Director Kaleb Littlejohn of Jacksonville State University, a UPACE Partner.
“On behalf of the University Partnership for Alabama Continuing Education and the Alabama Association of Chiefs of Police, I take great pleasure in announcing that HPD Chief Jordan Carter has completed 240 hours of training in the ‘Certified Law Enforcement Executive Program,’” Littlejohn noted. “This is the highest level of achievement that is awarded through this program.
“Chief Carter is among an elite group of chiefs in the state who have successfully completed the four-level program developed by the Alabama Association of Chiefs of Police and supported by the Alabama Peace Officers’ Standards and Training Commission. This honor is a real credit to Chief Carter and the Hamilton Police Department.”
Littlejohn noted Carter received his certification and recognition at the annual Association of Chiefs of Police Conference in Orange Beach on Aug. 6. He shared examples of courses in the program, which included: “Understanding and Developing Your Leadership Style; Police Leadership: Managing for the Future; Ethics and Integrity; Police Organizational Structure: Managing for Effectiveness: Strategic Planning and Personnel Management.”
He also noted the UPACE Partnership is made up of Jacksonville State University, The University of North Alabama and Troy University Dothan. “It’s purpose is to make continuing education programs available for agencies and associations across the state,” he explained.
We also reached out to Carter and requested a few comments on his achievement.
“Completing the 240-hour ‘Certified Law Enforcement Executive Program’ through the Alabama Association of Chiefs of Police and earning the ‘Certified Law Enforcement Executive’ designation from APOSTC is an accomplishment I am extremely proud of,” he said.
“Since becoming chief in 2023, this journey has taken me across Alabama—from Florence, Fort Payne, Jacksonville to Orange Beach, Montgomery and Dothan. Each trip provided another opportunity to learn, grow and gain a broader understanding of the challenges facing law enforcement agencies and communities throughout our state.
“I have been privileged to learn from and develop relationships with many strong and respected leaders, including retired Oxford Police Chief Bill Partridge, retired Foley Police Chief David Wilson, Retired Orange Beach Police Chief Steve Brown, Jacksonville Police Chief Marcus Wood, Leeds Police Chief Paul Irwin, Vestavia Hills Police Chief Shane Ware, Colonel Charles Ward of Ozark and APOSTC Executive Secretary R. Alan Benefield, among many others, including our Marion County law enforcement leaders.
“The knowledge these leaders share is invaluable, but so are the friendships and professional relationships developed along the way. These relationships have provided me with a network of experienced professionals who are always willing to share ideas, offer guidance and support one another.
“For me, this accomplishment is not about a title or adding letters behind my name. It is about becoming a better chief for the officers I serve, the City of Hamilton and the community that has placed its trust in me. Leadership requires a commitment to continued learning, and I will always look for opportunities to grow and bring the very best back to the Hamilton Police Department.
“I am honored to join the select group of Alabama law enforcement executives who have earned the CLEE designation, and I am sincerely grateful to everyone who supported and encouraged me throughout this journey.
“Alabama law requires certified law enforcement officers