Pikeville Police Department

Chief of Police – Ronald Byrd

In May 1999, the Pikeville City Council eagerly embraced their newly appointed Police Chief, Ronald Byrd. Chief Byrd’s journey towards this position began back in 1969 when he graduated from Bledsoe County High School. Seeking to serve his country, he joined the United States Army in 1974, dedicating 21 years of his life to its noble cause. By the time he retired in 1995, Chief Byrd had earned the rank of Sergeant First Class.

With his military career behind him, Chief Byrd sought a new path in the field of law enforcement. In 1996, he was granted the opportunity to join the Pikeville Police Department as a Patrolman. Eager to enhance his skills and knowledge, Chief Byrd enrolled in the renowned Tennessee Law Enforcement Training Academy (TLETA) in August of the same year.

Through sheer determination and hard work, Chief Byrd gradually ascended the ranks of the Pikeville Police Department, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues. Recognizing his exceptional capabilities, it was with utmost confidence and pride that he was appointed as the Chief of Police in May 1999.

Chief Byrd’s remarkable journey from a young graduate to a highly esteemed Police Chief stands as a testament to his unwavering dedication and commitment to his community. With his extensive military background and experience within the police force, Chief Byrd brings unique qualities and leadership skills that make him an invaluable asset to the Pikeville City Council and the citizens he serves.

Asst. Chief of Police – David Decker

David Decker began his law enforcement career in January 1991 with the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office, where he spent over three decades dedicated to public safety. Over the years, he gained valuable experience in various roles, including Corrections, Uniform Patrol, Field Training Officer, Criminal Investigations, Narcotics Investigations, and Mounted Patrol.

Assistant Chief Decker’s commitment to professional development led him to graduate from the JC Stone Criminal Justice Institute and the Kissimmee Police Academy. In pursuit of excellence, he also completed training in Line Supervision, Middle Management, and Command Officer Development through the University of Louisville in Kentucky.

Decker’s proven leadership and exceptional skills did not go unnoticed. In August 2021, he was hired as a Patrol Officer with the Pikeville Police Department, and his impressive 30 years of Law Enforcement experience quickly earned him a promotion. In November 2022, he was appointed as the Assistant Chief of Police, solidifying his position as a trusted and respected member of the force.

Throughout his career, Assistant Chief Decker actively participated in administrative duties, showcasing his ability to handle diverse responsibilities such as budgeting, planning, man-power allocation, and special assignments. His dedication to public service and his strong work ethic propelled him to the rank of Sergeant at the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office, where he retired with honors.

Assistant Chief Decker’s breadth of knowledge and experience demonstrate his unwavering commitment to maintaining law and order in his community. His passion for service and his expertise make him a valuable asset to the Pikeville Police Department as he continues to strive for excellence for the citizens of Pikeville.

Sergeant – Richard Carl Hodge Jr

Sergeant Hodge’s journey in law enforcement began in 2010, after graduating from Stone Memorial High School. Instead of pursuing a traditional college education, he chose to attend Tennessee Technology Center to learn the welding trade. However, his passion for serving and protecting others directed him towards a different path.

In the same year, Sergeant Hodge was offered a position as a Corrections Officer at the Bledsoe County Sheriff’s Office. With dedication and hard work, he quickly advanced through the ranks, starting as a Corrections Officer, then becoming a Corporal, and ultimately achieving the rank of Sergeant. His time at the Sheriff’s Office allowed him to gain valuable experience in managing and supervising a team.

In October 2017, Sergeant Hodge joined the Pikeville Police Department as a Patrol Officer. Recognizing the importance of professional development, he enrolled in the rigorous Tennessee Law Enforcement Training Academy (TLETA), where he completed his training in July 2018. Eager to broaden his expertise, he took on various roles within the department, including Evidence Technician and later Narcotics Enforcement.

Seeking new challenges, Sergeant Hodge accepted the role of Lieutenant Deputy at the Van Buren County Sheriff’s Office. In this position, he went through Law Enforcement Instructor Development training, further enhancing his leadership skills and knowledge of law enforcement practices.

However, his heart remained with the City of Pikeville, and in October 2022, he returned to his hometown, this time as a Sergeant. Since then, Sergeant Hodge has been committed to self-improvement and staying updated on the latest techniques and practices in law enforcement. He has completed numerous courses on narcotics, tactical policing, tactical first aid, as well as specialized training in TCCC (Tactical Combat Casualty Care) and advanced building clearing.

Sergeant Hodge’s extensive experience, combined with his continuous pursuit of knowledge, makes him a valuable asset to the Pikeville Police Department. His dedication to keeping the community safe and his willingness to go above and beyond the call of duty are qualities that are admired and respected by his colleagues and the citizens he serves.

Patrolman – Matthew Brock

In July 2023, Patrolman Matthew Brock embarked on a new chapter of his career when he was hired by the Pikeville Police Department. This opportunity was particularly significant for Matthew as he was born and raised in Pikeville, Tennessee. Growing up in this tight-knit community fueled his passion for serving and protecting the people he had known his whole life.

After completing his high school education at Bledsoe County High School in 2010, Matthew pursued higher education at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Initially, he chose to major in Nursing, but after a semester, he realized his true calling lay elsewhere. Matthew then transferred to Chattanooga State College, where he engaged in a semester studying Construction Engineering. Although these pursuits did not ultimately align with his long-term aspirations, they provided valuable experiences that shaped his character and work ethic.

In 2012, Matthew underwent a transformative professional opportunity when he was hired by the Bledsoe County Detention Center. Through attending TCI Basic Training, he became a certified Corrections Officer, reaffirming his commitment to maintaining safety and order within the criminal justice system. Dedication and hard work propelled Matthew forward, leading to a promotion to the rank of Corporal during his tenure at the Bledsoe County Detention Center.

The next phase of Matthew’s career unfolded in April of 2015, when he was promoted to the role of Deputy for the Bledsoe County Sheriff’s Department. To prepare himself for this demanding position, he attended the rigorous Tennessee Law Enforcement Training Academy (TLETA). It was during this training program that Matthew further honed his skills, expanding his knowledge on various aspects of law enforcement. Graduating in October 2015, he emerged as a competent and well-rounded law enforcement professional.

Matthew faithfully served as a Deputy for the Bledsoe County Sheriff’s Department from 2015 to 2023. These eight years were marked by his unwavering dedication to the community he knew so well. Matthew’s interpersonal skills and commitment to public safety earned him the respect and admiration of both his colleagues and the residents he served.

Now, as Matthew embarks on his new role as a Patrolman for the Pikeville Police Department, he is excited to bring his wealth of experience and expertise back to his hometown. Determined to make a positive impact and enhance public safety within his community, Matthew’s journey continues to unfold, driven by his unwavering dedication to uphold the law and protect those he serves.

Patrolman – Madison Curtis

In March of 2024, Patrolman Madison Curtis joined the Pikeville Police Department, transitioning from her previous career as a Certified Pharmacy Technician. She brings her experience in healthcare and dedication to helping others to her new role in law enforcement.

Patrolman Curtis is dedicated to furthering her education in the field of criminal justice. Starting at Chattanooga State Community College and continuing on to Bethel University, she is determined to earn her bachelor’s degree. As she continues to complete her studies, she is excited to begin her career as a Patrolman for the City of Pikeville. Madison is eager to continue her education and training by attending the Tennessee Law Enforcement Training Academy (TLETA) towards the end of summer. Her commitment to learning and professional development will undoubtedly make her a valuable asset to the police force.