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EAST ALTON — A new chapter begins today for the East Alton Police Department as Al Adams takes over as police chief following the retirement of Chief Scott Golike.
Golike officially retires today after a long career in law enforcement, including the past five and a half years serving as chief of the East Alton Police Department.
Adams, who has served with the East Alton Police Department as major, now assumes leadership of the department.
Adams brings nearly three decades of law-enforcement experience to the position. During his tenure with the Alton Police Department, Adams worked in every department except traffic enforcement before retiring as a lieutenant.
“I want to thank my wife, who has stood by me and supported me through this career,” Adams said to the crowd.
Several police officers from throughout the area were on hand to support Adams as his wife pinned his badge on him during the ceremony.
Adams said that when Golike called him more than five years ago and told him he was going to become East Alton's police chief and asked Adams to come aboard as major, he immediately said yes. The two had previously worked together at the Alton Police Department.
During his career, Adams gained extensive experience in investigations. He ran the operations of the drug department, spent significant time working on investigations and with the Major Case Squad, and served as a special agent in the early 1990s. He also served on various task forces throughout his career.
In 2013, Adams attended the FBI's National Academy, furthering his law-enforcement education and professional development.
As he begins his tenure as chief, Adams said he looks forward to continuing his career in law enforcement and serving the East Alton community.
