Bullock to Become New Foley Public Safety Director

FOLEY – Foley Police Chief Thurston Bullock will become the city’s new executive director of public safety when David Wilson retires from the position in September.

Wilson, who had been Foley police chief for 13 years and had previously served in the Daphne Police Department was named executive director of public safety when the position was created in 2021.

Foley's public safety director is a senior management position that oversees the Police Department and Fire Department and coordinates the city’s emergency management responses.

Wilson said Bullock is an excellent choice as the new public safety executive director.

“I have worked with Thurston for 17 years,” Wilson said. “He has a lifetime of commitment and dedication to the citizens of Foley with the Police Department. I have witnessed his leadership as the patrol lieutenant, SWAT commander, captain then deputy chief/chief of staff. He has now served close to five years as police chief. He will replace me as the executive director of public safety and  I look forward to seeing his leadership in this new role. “

Mayor Ralph Hellmich said Bullock’s appointment will help Foley public safety continue to improve and serve the community.

“Chief Bullock worked closely with Chief Wilson to build our Police Department into the finest in the county,” Hellmich said. “Conducting community policing has created a great safe environment for our citizens and is a big reason why people are moving to Foley.  I applaud our entire first responders and believe Director Bullock will continue this tradition."

Bullock was named Foley police chief after Wilson retired as chief in 2020. He has worked with the city since 1996 and was deputy police chief before being named chief.

Deputy Chief Kevin Carnley will be promoted to become Foley’s eighth police chief.