Tracy McFadden was named Walthourville’s new police chief last Friday. He replaces Terry J. Harget, who led the department since its inception in 2009.

McFadden, who was born and raised in Tattnall County, joined the department in January 2010 as a patrolman with 13 years of experience.

The Reidsville native garnered his law enforcement experience from other agencies, including the Reidsville Police Department, Toombs County Sheriff’s Office, Paulding County Marshal’s Office and the Office of Homeland Security/GEMA in Atlanta.

McFadden said he is confident the police department will continue to grow with continuous support from the mayor, city council, the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office and the community.

“It is truly a blessing and a privilege to serve the community I love,” McFadden said.

The new chief’s current police force includes an administrative clerk, five certified police officers and future plans to include an investigation division.

McFadden recognized Harget, who started the department in February 2009.

“Great things happened while Chief Harget led this department and I will continue as well to move the city forward,” McFadden said.

Harget left earlier this year to accept a position as police chief for the city of Euharlee in northern Georgia.

McFadden said his motto is “United we stand and divided we fall.”

“More can be done when everyone in the community works together,” he said. “My goal as the chief of police is to demonstrate professionalism through the department in how I address the concerns of the citizens and by being friendly, firm and fair. I am a chief who is eager to listen to any concerns within the city and to understand that for every problem, there is a solution.”