Aledo hires first public safety director

Carol Riddle

Aledo City Manager Noah Simon announced he has appointed Carol Riddle as the City of Aledo’s inaugural Public Safety Director, effective immediately.

“This role is vital as Aledo embarks on the establishment of its first-ever police department, a top priority set by Mayor Nick Stanley and the Aledo City Council,” Simon said. “Riddle’s extensive public safety expertise and leadership make her the ideal choice to spearhead this critical initiative. With her energy, enthusiasm and passion, she is well-positioned to build a dynamic and professional police department that will serve Aledo’s growing community.”

Bringing 24 years of law enforcement experience to the role, Riddle is a licensed Texas Master Peace Officer. Her career began in January 2000 with the Arlington Police Department, where she served for more than two decades. Following her retirement, she served as Assistant Chief of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas and most recently as its Chief of Police.

Riddle’s range of experience includes leading human trafficking investigative efforts during Super Bowl XLV, managing Youth Services and Special Operations Divisions, and overseeing the implementation of a new records management system in Arlington. At the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, she managed district law enforcement operations, spearheaded security enhancements, and mentored women in law enforcement and other fields.

Her academic accomplishments include a Master of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice from the University of Texas at Arlington and a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Midwestern State University. She is also a graduate of the Leadership Command College, the Senior Management Institute for Police, and the Police Executive Leadership Institute.

“I am excited to be selected for the opportunity to lead and build the city’s first police department and can’t wait to jump in, roll up my sleeves, and get to work,” Riddle said. “I’m looking forward to connecting with the Aledo community and collaborating with our local institutions, neighbors, and law enforcement partners as we bring the city council’s goal of creating the Aledo Police Department to fruition. Aledo is a wonderful community, and I’m ready to immerse myself in its rich heritage and contribute to the dynamic future of Aledo.”

"Carol Riddle’s appointment marks a pivotal moment in Aledo’s history," said Mayor Nick Stanley. "Her wealth of experience and dedication to public safety make her the perfect choice to lead the development of our first police department. We’re confident that her leadership will ensure a strong foundation for public safety in our growing community.”

The selection process for the Public Safety Director began several months ago and included multiple interviews with the City’s public safety consultant, a written exercise, and an interview with a panel of current and former police chiefs, as well as the City’s Public Safety Advisory Committee.

“The City of Aledo welcomes Riddle to her new role and looks forward to the successful establishment of the Aledo Police Department” Simon said.

A community meet-and-greet will be scheduled soon, allowing residents to connect with Riddle and learn more about her vision for public safety in Aledo.