The Tallahassee Police Department promoted eight veteran officers into key leadership positions this week, elevating two deputy chiefs, one major and five captains as the agency navigates a period of significant workforce transition across city government. The promotions were announced during a ceremony recognizing the officers’ accomplishments and their expanded leadership responsibilities within the department. Promoted to deputy chief were Calvin Bedenbaugh and Jeff Mahoney. Sonya Bush was promoted to major. The department also elevated five officers to the rank of captain: Charzetta Felton, Anitra Highland Simmonds, Zachary Lyne, Damon Miller Jr. and Laura Varble. Police Chief Lawrence Revell said the promotions underscore the department’s commitment to developing future leaders. “One of the most important responsibilities of today’s leaders is preparing future leaders,” Revell said. “These promotions reflect the depth of talent within our department and our commitment to developing leaders who are ready to guide this organization into the future. I hope every officer sees that there is a path to leadership through hard work, integrity and service.” The promotions come as the City of Tallahassee implements a voluntary separation incentive program designed to reduce personnel costs and help address budget pressures. Approved by the City Commission in April, the program offers eligible full-time employees hired before the start of 2026 a choice between a $20,000 severance payment or 12 weeks of base pay, whichever is greater. Participants also receive city-paid health insurance through the end of the calendar year and payment for accrued leave. City officials have said the program is intended to reduce personnel expenses by about 5% while allowing departments to reorganize and promote employees into leadership positions without reducing public services. According to city records, 171 employees accepted the incentive package, exceeding the city’s initial projections. Those employees represented approximately 1,700 years of combined service and more than $12 million in annual salaries. The Tallahassee Police Department accounted for 21 of the voluntary departures, one of the highest totals among city departments. Against that backdrop, the latest command staff promotions represent more than routine career advancement. They are part of a broader succession planning effort as the department replaces experienced personnel and prepares a new generation of leaders to oversee operations, mentor officers and implement departmental priorities. Deputy chiefs serve among the department’s highest-ranking officials, assisting the chief with strategic planning and daily operations. Majors oversee major divisions or bureaus, while captains command patrol districts, investigative units and specialized teams. The Tallahassee Police Department said the newly promoted leaders will help guide the agency through its next chapter while continuing its mission of protecting the community and maintaining public safety. ...read more read less