Goodlettsville PD announce staff transitions

After serving 13 years as the head of the Goodlettsville Police Department, Chief Gary Goodwin announced that he will retire effective Jan. 1, 2026.  

Goodwin has 50 years of law enforcement experience and has served in various leadership positions throughout his distinguished career. 

“Serving as the chief of police for the City of Goodlettsville has been an honor of a lifetime,” said Goodwin. “I feel we have achieved a lot during my time as chief, but it is time now to spend more time with my family.” 

City Manager Tim Ellis praised Chief Goodwin’s service. 

“It has been a great honor working with Chief Goodwin over these past 13 years,” Ellis said. “His commitment to professionalism and community is unparalleled and much appreciated, and he has made Goodlettsville safer and a better place to call home.” 

Commander Audra Cherry-Crawford will be promoted to the chief of police position.  

“The next chief of police needed to bring proven experience from within the department, a strong leadership skill set, and a solid criminal justice background—and with Commander Crawford, we have that person,” Ellis said. 

Crawford has been with the department for the past 26 years and holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Bethel University. She is also a graduate of the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command. Throughout Commander Crawford's career, she has filled many roles within the department. 

“It is an extreme and humbling honor to be appointed to the position of chief of police,” Crawford said. “My commitment to making the city of Goodlettsville as safe as possible will be unwavering as we work together to make our community great.” 

Ellis also announced the appointment of Commander Jason DeLoach as deputy chief of police.  

“With Commander DeLoach, we have the perfect fit of a leader in his temperament, knowledge, and experience,” Ellis said. 

Commander DeLoach has served with the Goodlettsville Police Department for the past 31 years in multiple leadership roles and is a graduate of the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command. 

“I am grateful for this opportunity as we all work together in making Goodlettsville a safe and well-rounded community,” DeLoach said.