Forest Acres Police Chief Don Robinson Announces Retirement; Comprehensive Search to Begin
Forest Acres Police Chief Don Robinson has announced his intent to retire after nearly 35 years in law enforcement, including nearly five years leading the Forest Acres Police Department. Robinson will remain in his role while the City conducts a comprehensive search for the department’s next chief to ensure a seamless transition.
In his August 11 retirement notice to Mayor Thomas Andrews and City Council, Robinson said serving as chief has been the pinnacle of his professional career and a lifelong goal.
“After nearly 35 years in law enforcement, I believe the time has come to prioritize my family and the next chapter of life,” Robinson said. “My wife and daughter have stood beside me throughout this career, accepting countless nights, weekends, holidays, and missed family moments that come with this profession. I owe it to them to slow down, enjoy more evenings at home, and be fully present for her and my daughter while finally living life off the clock.”
Chief Robinson's Tenure
Robinson joined the Forest Acres Police Department following an impressive career with the Richland County Sheriff’s Department. A longtime Forest Acres resident who raised his daughter in the community, Robinson brought extensive investigative experience and a deep understanding of the city to the position. He was the department’s first outside hire to lead the agency in decades.
“Chief Robinson took over a Forest Acres Police Department that already had a strong track record of community policing and pushed it further forward while taking important steps to modernize the department,” said Mayor Thomas Andrews. “He implemented in-car computers and computer-aided electronic dispatch, upgraded firearms and Tasers, expanded our less than lethal options, and brought new tactics and training, including a renewed focus on community policing and active-shooter training. In short, he made us safer and better.”
Robinson said his goal when he accepted the position was to modernize the department while honoring the strong foundation established by the distinguised FAPD Chief's who served before him. Overall, he counts 95 improvements during his tenure.
“I believe we successfully positioned the department for the future while preserving the values that have long defined the Forest Acres Police Department,” Robinson said. “Most importantly, I believe we made a positive and lasting impact on both the department and the community we serve.”
Robinson said the strength of the department and the city’s continued growth make this an appropriate time for new leadership.
“The department is strong, the city is experiencing unprecedented growth, and a new Chief will have the opportunity to continue expanding the department and lead it into its next chapter,” Robinson said.
Search for Next FAPD Police Chief
City Administrator Shaun Greenwood said the City will conduct a thorough and competitive search for the department’s next leader.
“Our goal is to identify a leader with the experience, vision, integrity and commitment necessary to lead a modern police department and serve a growing community,” Greenwood said. “We will take the time necessary to find the right person for Forest Acres, while Chief Robinson remains actively engaged to ensure continuity throughout the process.”
The search will begin immediately. Robinson has committed to remaining as Chief throughout the search and transition.
“Although I am retiring from this position, my commitment to Forest Acres remains unwavering,” Robinson said. “I will do everything possible to support the transition and position my successor for success.”
Andrews said the City is grateful for Robinson’s nearly five years of service to Forest Acres and his 35-year career in law enforcement.
“We are thankful for Chief Robinson’s 35 years of dedicated service and for all he has done for our community,” Andrews said. “We congratulate him on a well-earned retirement.”