BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Birmingham Police Chief Scott Thurmond will step down on November 29, marking the end of a 26-year career amid intense political and community scrutiny. His annual salary of $179,382, well above the national average for police chiefs, underscores the position’s high stakes in a city grappling with violent crime.
Since taking the role in 2022, Thurmond has earned significantly more than his counterparts in similar-sized cities. For context, most U.S. police chiefs earn between $110,000 and $130,000, with only the largest cities exceeding $140,000. But Birmingham’s top cop faced exceptional pressures, responsible not only for operational oversight but for navigating the political crossfire that often comes with high-profile law enforcement roles.
Recently, state Rep. Juandalynn Givan and others have called for Thurmond’s resignation, criticizing his leadership in light of violent crime surges, especially in marginalized areas. However, Mayor Randall Woodfin has defended Thurmond, emphasizing that some crime metrics have improved and crediting him for reductions in specific categories. Despite this, critics argue that these gains are overshadowed by rising homicides and persistent community safety concerns.
The hefty paycheck reflects the complexities of the role, where policing isn’t just a job—it’s a political balancing act. As chief, Thurmond not only commanded day-to-day operations of the department but also managed its public image, community outreach, and crime strategy. With Deputy Chief Michael Pickett set to take over as interim chief, Birmingham’s law enforcement leadership will be tasked with finding new strategies to tackle violence and rebuild public trust.