A former captain in the Vestavia Hills Police Department has been elevated to chief of police following the unexpected passing of former Chief Danny P. Rary earlier this year.
Chief Shane Ware took on the office in late November, after being appointed by City Manager Jeff Downes.
“This is a dream-of-a-lifetime opportunity, and I am both humbled and honored to have been selected as the new police chief,” Ware said in a statement from the city. “I am eager to continue the mission of this great organization. The number of internal candidates eligible for the position speaks highly of our organization’s talent and capable leadership.”
Ware holds a master’s in justice administration from Faulkner University, a bachelor’s in business administration from Birmingham-Southern College and many law enforcement-related certifications. He also graduated the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy, a rigorous 10-week program that provides high-level law enforcement education and expertise.
He began his 27-year career as a police officer with Bessemer in 1996 before starting in 2000 with Vestavia Hills, where he progressed through the ranks at a steady pace, serving as a police officer, corporal, sergeant, lieutenant, captain and now police chief.
Ware attended the Dec. 9 Breakfast with Santa and on Dec. 11 was officially sworn in as chief during the City Council meeting.
City Manager Jeff Downes, who has worked with Ware for the past 10 years, said he evaluated some of the most talented individuals in the region who applied for the chief’s position.
“With an eye on sustaining our community’s safety, continuing a family culture within the police department, and positioning ourselves to continue the utmost professionalism, I proudly announce the promotion of Vestavia Hills Police Captain Shane Ware as our new chief of police,” he said in a statement.
“Shane is a strategic thinker who will embrace the legacy of his mentor and predecessor, deceased Chief Dan Rary, while focusing on the opportunities to move the department forward in a cutting-edge manner,” Downes said in the statement.
