Former Alachua Police Chief and sheriff’s office candidate Chad Scott returned to APD last week after a two-year stint with the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO).
Scott rejoined APD with the rank of captain on June 20 and will coordinate special projects along with other administrative duties and assignments, according to an APD news release.
“We are excited to have one of our former leaders return home,” APD chief Jesse Sandusky said in the release. “With Captain Scott’s leadership abilities and knowledge of our local community, I know that he will serve the citizens well in this new endeavor.”
Scott began his career in law enforcement with ACSO, where he stayed until joining APD in 2008. He worked his way up to chief of police, but left APD in 2022 to re-join ACSO as a major, taking charge of the Department of Operations.
Scott’s campaign for Alachua County Sheriff is still active, with over $38,000 in monetary contributions to his campaign so far.
Scott said he had to leave ACSO in order to run for sheriff, because of Florida’s resign-to-run law, which requires that a deputy sheriff or police officer “must resign effective upon qualifying… if the person is seeking to qualify for a public office that is currently held by an officer who has authority to appoint, employ, promote, or otherwise supervise that person and who has qualified as a candidate for reelection to that office.”
This portion of Florida Statute 99.012 applies to Scott because he is running against the current sheriff, Emery Gainey.
“Despite this bittersweet transition, I am thrilled to be back in Alachua, working with the community I deeply care about,” Scott wrote in a statement. “I’m committed to bringing the same dedication and passion to this role as I did during my years as Chief.”
Scott said he is proud to see that the leadership team and accreditation he set up at APD has flourished, and working there again “feels like coming home.”
Editor’s note: This story has been updated with information from Chad Scott about his reasons for the transition.
Way to go Chad. Its very deserving. As my High School Resource officer you have always did your best to may change happen. Always trust in God , Keep the faith and know He will continue to make your enemies your footstool.