The Gulf Shores Police Department will embark on a new chapter under fresh leadership this week. Mayor Robert Craft formally swore in Dan Netemeyer as Chief of Police, then Chief Netemeyer promptly swore in Joe Taylor as Deputy Chief. The department says it expects their leadership to be steady, community-focused, and grounded in integrity. 

The swearing-in ceremony took place on Monday, November 3, 2025, at the Gulf Shores City Council Meeting. The swearing-in was part of an official transition of command. Mayor Craft noted that Netemeyer and Taylor bring forward-thinking vision to the department. Netemeyer’s appointment follows the retirement of long-time Chief Ed Delmore, who stepped down after 15 years of service earlier this year. 

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Chief Netemeyer brings extensive law enforcement experience to his new role. He began his career as a police officer in Illinois, serving for eight years—two and a half years as a patrolman and five and a half years as a sergeant. He then spent 24 years with the FBI, retiring as a senior leader. Most recently, Netemeyer served as interim chief for ten months before joining the Gulf Shores Police Department as deputy chief in September 2025. He was officially sworn in as chief of police on Monday, November 3, 2025.

Deputy Chief Taylor, coming into his new post immediately following Netemeyer’s swearing-in, is positioned to assist in implementing strategic goals across patrol, investigations and community outreach. The department emphasized a “community-first leadership” approach and committed to transparency, proactive engagement and service excellence.

Mayor Craft said the transition reflects the city’s ongoing vision for public safety and the enhancement of relationships between law enforcement and residents. He encouraged the public to engage actively, attend department events and lend support as the new leadership team takes charge.

Under Netemeyer’s direction, the Gulf Shores Police Department plans to build on existing programs like the Youth Academy, Volunteers in Police Service and community video surveillance initiatives that were already listed on the department website. The stated goal is to ensure that both residents and visitors benefit from a safe, welcoming environment.