Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — After more than 30 years of dedicated service to the Orange Beach community, Police Chief Steve Brown has announced his retirement, effective September 1, 2025. Brown has spent his entire career with the Orange Beach Police Department, rising through the ranks to become chief. He began as a law enforcement explorer and quickly earned recognition for his commitment and leadership. His retirement marks the end of an era for the city’s public safety leadership.

Mayor Tony Kennon praised Chief Brown in a public statement, calling him a “trusted and devoted presence” in the city since joining the department in 1995. Brown began his law enforcement career as an explorer under then-Chief Robert Vincent, quickly rising through the ranks to lead the department.

“Chief Brown brought with him a breadth of experience—including roles in dispatch, corrections, and years of dedicated service in the field,” Kennon stated. “His leadership has always been grounded in firsthand knowledge and a deep commitment to the safety and well-being of Orange Beach.”

Also see: Assistant Chief Howard Retires After 30 Years of Service

Brown reflected on his career in a heartfelt letter to citizens, saying, “Serving the people of Orange Beach has been one of the greatest privileges of my life.” He expressed deep gratitude for the support of fellow officers, city leaders, and residents, and emphasized that law enforcement has always been more than just a job—“it has been a calling.”

Both letters (see below) highlighted Brown’s role in shaping the Orange Beach Police Department into a trusted and professional organization. Mayor Kennon noted Brown’s ability to strike a balance between protecting residents and supporting a world-class vacation destination: “That is no small task, but Chief Brown handled it with integrity, professionalism, and care.”

Chief Brown said he will carry the values and lessons learned over his career into retirement. “I am incredibly proud of the professionalism, integrity, and compassion that define the men and women of the Orange Beach Police Department,” he wrote.

Mayor Kennon concluded his remarks by thanking Chief Brown for his unwavering service, adding, “His legacy will remain a part of the fabric of this community, and his contributions will be remembered for years to come.”