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Cumming names new police chief
Department veteran to lead force
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Cumming Mayor H. Ford Gravitt, left, swore in Casey Tatum as Cumming's new police chief Monday morning. - photo by For the Forsyth County News

The Cumming Police Department has new leadership.

According to a statement from Sgt. Bryan Zimbardi, Scott Burgess stepped down as chief Monday morning due to health concerns. He has been replaced by Assistant Chief Casey Tatum.

"Former Chief Burgess will retain employment with the city of Cumming and will leave his position with the respect and sympathy of Cumming Police Department officers and staff," the statement read.

Burgess had served as interim and then permanent chief since 2009, after Mike Eason stepped down from the post.

Tatum, who has been with the city for 15 of his 25 years in law enforcement, said it’s an honor and a privilege to take on the new role.

He noted that he has always endeavored to "provide the highest level of professional service to everyone that I come into contact with."

"I believe that the police department, under the guidance of several chiefs before me, has maintained a positive, respected image to the community and to the city itself," Tatum said.

"In this position, I intend to continue these trends and will strive to enhance the public’s respect for our department and officers by providing them with an exceptional level of service and compassion."

Cumming Police Sgt. Clyde Cook, a seven-year veteran of the force, will serve as assistant chief, according to the department.