Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Named New Public Safety Director
Secretary Hal Taylor has appointed Jeremy J. Burkett to lead the Alabama Department of Public Safety.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in People
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency has appointed Jeremy J. Burkett as the new Colonel and Director of the Department of Public Safety. This appointment, made by Secretary Hal Taylor, became effective September 22, 2026.
Why it matters
The appointment recognizes the extensive professional background and work ethic of Burkett within state public safety. His leadership follows a long career spanning both military and state law enforcement roles.
Jeremy J. Burkett brings 20 years of law enforcement experience to the director position. He previously served as the Chief and Director of the ALEA Administrative Bureau.
The players
Jeremy J. Burkett
He is the newly appointed Colonel and Director of the Department of Public Safety who has served in the Alabama National Guard since 2002.
Hal Taylor
He serves as the Secretary who appointed Jeremy J. Burkett to the leadership position within the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency.
The details
Burkett began his career as an Alabama State Trooper in 2006 and has maintained a concurrent commitment to the Alabama National Guard since 2002, where he currently holds the rank of Major. He holds a bachelor's degree in criminal justice from Troy University.
Timeline
Jeremy J. Burkett began serving in the Alabama National Guard in 2002.
Burkett started his law enforcement career as an Alabama State Trooper in 2006.
The appointment of Jeremy J. Burkett became effective September 22, 2026.
Market Landscape
This appointment maintains the continuity of leadership within the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency. It reflects a trend of promoting career officers with extensive field experience to oversee critical state public safety operations.
The appointment of a new Director of Public Safety does not change immediate public access to agency services or law enforcement resources. Residents can expect standard operations to continue under the new leadership.
The takeaway
The selection of a long-term state employee to lead the Department of Public Safety underscores a focus on internal institutional knowledge. This move suggests a continued commitment to existing operational standards within the agency.
Further reading
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