After an extensive search, the City of Indianola has announced the promotion of Captain Rob Hawkins as the next police chief for the Indianola Police Department.

Hawkins, who has served as interim chief since September following the retirement of former Indianola Police Chief Brian Sher, will be officially sworn into the position by the Indianola City Council during its regular meeting at 6 p.m. on Monday, December 15.

“It is an honor to be selected as Indianola’s next police chief, and I am truly thankful for the opportunity to serve in this role,” said Hawkins. “This community has been central to my life, shaping my career, my values and the purpose that guides me every day. The Indianola Police Department stands on a foundation shaped by years of integrity, professionalism and dedication, and it is my privilege to build upon that legacy alongside our officers and staff as we move forward.”

Hawkins began his law enforcement career in 1997 with the Pella Police Department in Pella, Iowa. He joined the Indianola Police Department in 2000, where he has served in various roles including police officer, drug task force officer, general crimes detective, sergeant, patrol lieutenant, captain and interim chief.

Hawkins has led several key initiatives in Indianola, including the implementation of body-worn cameras, the launch of the Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) drone program, the development of the school resource officer program and the expansion of the department’s social media presence.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from American Military University and a master’s degree in criminal justice with a focus on public administration from Liberty University. Hawkins is a retired member of the Iowa Army National Guard, where he served for 22 years and completed five overseas deployments in support of Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. Additionally, he has worked as a substitute teacher for 13 years with the Indianola Community School District.

The police chief serves as Indianola’s highest-ranking law enforcement official, tasked with guiding the department and upholding both state and local laws. This chief works in close partnership with the city manager, mayor, city council and other key community stakeholders to enhance public safety and preserve order. The role manages a team of 24 full-time sworn officers, oversees seven civilian staff members and administers a budget totaling $4 million.

With assistance from MGT, an executive search and management consulting firm specializing in local government, three finalists were chosen from a pool of 20 applicants. These candidates took part in a thorough, two-day final interview process held December 4-5, which included panel interviews with various local and area stakeholders, guided community tours and a meet-and-greet session with department staff and members of the city council.

“Choosing Indianola’s next police chief has been a top priority for the City,” said City Manager Jacob Meshke. “Throughout this process and his career in law enforcement, Captain Hawkins has consistently demonstrated experience, community awareness and steady leadership that instills confidence in both staff and residents. His forward-thinking approach – focused on innovation, collaboration and organizational growth – reflects a clear understanding of modern policing that will help advance the department toward continued excellence and success.”

To learn more about the Indianola Police Department, please visit indianolaiowa.gov/police.