Captain Timothy L. Allen serves as the department's Patrol Division Commander. In this role, he is responsible for the daily supervision of patrol operations, criminal investigations, officer development, strategic planning, policy implementation, and organizational leadership to ensure the delivery of professional, community-focused law enforcement services.
Captain Allen brings more than 30 years of law enforcement experience to the Austell Police Department. He began his career with the Atlanta Police Department in 1995, where he served in patrol, criminal investigations, and supervision before attaining the rank of Sergeant. Throughout his career, he has also served with the DeKalb County School District Police Department, the Lilburn Police Department as a Lieutenant and Patrol Watch Commander, and the Forsyth County Sheriff's Office as a member of the Training Division. He joined the Austell Police Department in 2023.
A strong advocate for professional development and leadership, Captain Allen holds a Master of Public Safety Administration from the Georgia Law Enforcement Command College at Columbus State University and a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology from Saint Leo University. He has earned Georgia P.O.S.T. Advanced, Supervisory, and Managerial Certifications, along with General, Firearms, Defensive Tactics, Driving, and Use of Force Instructor Certifications. He has completed more than 3,900 hours of Georgia P.O.S.T.-approved training and continues to pursue advanced leadership education.
Throughout his career, Captain Allen has been instrumental in developing field training programs, leadership development initiatives, departmental policies, and organizational training programs designed to improve officer performance, accountability, and public service. He has also played a key role in strategic planning, budget development, and the successful implementation of professional standards and accreditation initiatives.
Captain Allen remains actively involved in the law enforcement profession through his service as President of the Cobb County Law Enforcement Association, a member of the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police (GACP) and the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP). He previously served as President of the Georgia Auto Theft & Intelligence Council and Vice President of the International Association of Auto Theft Investigators – Southeast Chapter.
His dedication to public service and professional excellence has been recognized through numerous honors, including the Meritorious Service Award, Life Saving Award, Chief's Award, and multiple Supervisor of the Year recognitions.
Captain Allen is committed to fostering a culture of professionalism, accountability, innovation, and community partnership while mentoring the next generation of law enforcement leaders and ensuring the Austell Police Department continues to provide exceptional service to the citizens of Austell.