Chief of Police

 Looks like Carbondale has a new Chief of Police. Rather bemused the press release announcing it was sent out at 4:56 on a Friday afternoon

The City of Carbondale is pleased to announce the appointment of Anthony Copeland as its new Chief of Police, effective September 2, 2025.

Copeland brings more than two decades of law enforcement experience to the position and a strong commitment to community-centered policing and leadership development. Copeland began his career in law enforcement in 2002 with the Baltimore County Police Department in Maryland. In 2006, he and his family relocated to Western Kentucky, where he joined the Paducah Police Department starting as a patrol officer and then a detective. Over the course of his distinguished career, he served in or supervised every division as he promoted through the ranks within the Paducah Police Department. Since 2018, Copeland has held the role of Assistant Chief of Police.

Copeland holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and a master’s degree in Human Development and Leadership from Murray State University. His training also includes advanced law enforcement leadership programs from the FBI, Penn State University, the University of Louisville, and the Southern Police Institute.

Carbondale City Manager and retiring Chief of Police Stan Reno expressed his confidence in the transition and praised Copeland’s extensive experience and character: “Chief Copeland is a proven leader who understands the importance of professional law enforcement practices, accountability and community engagement,” said Reno. “ His combination of experience, education, and vision makes him the right person to lead the Department into the future. I am proud to entrust the leadership of the Department with someone who is committed to building strong relationships within the Carbondale community and keeping the community safe.”