ALTO, Ga. – The Town of Alto has appointed Sean Rogers as its new Interim Police Chief, marking the latest milestone in a rapid ascent through the ranks of local law enforcement. Rogers, who most recently served as Assistant Chief, brings a decade of service and a unique background in private enterprise to the department’s top leadership role.
Non-traditional path to Chief
Rogers’ path to the chief’s office is far from traditional. Before entering law enforcement, he spent his early career owning and operating a roofing company in Michigan. His transition to public service began in 2015, a shift Rogers attributes to a spiritual calling. “God chose a new chapter,” he noted regarding the pivot from business owner to peace officer.
His law enforcement career began in earnest after he attended the Habersham Sheriff’s Office Citizens Academy in 2015. Determined to serve, Rogers put himself through the Athens Police Academy as a pre-service candidate in 2017. Later that year, he joined the Habersham County Sheriff’s Office as a road deputy. During his tenure there, Rogers distinguished himself quickly, earning a promotion to Corporal in 2020, achieving Field Training Officer (FTO) certification to mentor new hires, and receiving the “Deputy of the Year” award for 2020.
Timeline of Alto career
In November 2021, Rogers joined the Alto Police Department, where his career track accelerated significantly.
* July 2022: Promoted to Corporal after completing supervision classes.
* March 2023: Promoted to Sergeant.
* April 2025: Promoted to Assistant Chief.
Throughout his time in Alto, Rogers has focused heavily on professional development, completing Management I, II, and III classes and earning his Supervision, Intermediate, and Advanced Certificates.
To God the Glory
Reflecting on his appointment, Interim Chief Rogers expressed gratitude for his predecessors and his faith.
“It’s been an amazing journey the last eight years, especially here working for the Town of Alto and under the leadership of Chief Josh Ivey,” Rogers said. “I plan on taking what I’ve learned over the years and applying it to the future and advancement of this Police Department and Town. I give thanks to the Mayor & City Council for giving me this opportunity to lead the Department. I thank God for the promotion, giving Him all the credit and glory.”
City officials have expressed strong confidence in Rogers’ ability to handle both the operational and administrative demands of the office. Lisa Turner, the City of Alto Chief Financial Officer, highlighted Rogers’ preparation for the role.
“Sean has done a great job in preparing himself to fill the position of Chief and is continuing to build on his education,” Turner said. “He has done very well in taking on the responsibilities of the administration side of the position as well because he has a desire to learn and has a teachable spirit. While there are some things that come only in experience, I am confident that he will do well because he has faith in God and understands that while the opportunity is great, the accountability and responsibility are far greater.”
Rogers assumes the role of Interim Chief effective immediately.
Summary of career achievements
* 2017-2021: Habersham County Sheriff’s Office (Deputy of the Year 2020).
* 2021-Present: Alto Police Department (Corporal, Sergeant, Assistant Chief).
* Certifications: FTO, Supervision, Intermediate, and Advanced Peace Officer Certificates.
