MADISON –  Johnny Gandy as the City’s new Chief of Police reported for his first day in the job Monday.

Gandy was approved by the city council last month to replace David Jernigan, who retired earlier this year. MPD Major John Stringer had been the acting police chief until Gandy started.

Before his transition to Madison, Johnny Gandy served as a Captain of the City of Virginia Beach Police Department and retains a long list of achievements.

“We are thankful for John Gandy’s service and experience. Our team at City Hall enthusiastically welcomes him to Madison,” Madison Mayor Paul Finley said.

“I am thrilled to serve Madison through integrity and cooperation. One of my first initiatives will be to finalize the Madison Police Citizen’s Advisory Committee with its last member. I look forward to calling Madison ‘home’ and planting my family’s roots,” Gandy said.

According to a press release from the city, the incoming police chief will be responsible for maintaining the community’s high level of policing services, growing successful public safety outreach programs, and providing strategic leadership over a diverse department.

“Council has full confidence in John Gandy to lead the charge of Madison’s safety and security. Our residents can trust that community policing and departmental goals will be supported by his leadership,” City Council President Greg Shaw added.