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ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - The City of South Fulton has hired a U.S. marshal as its next police chief, city officials announced Thursday.

U.S. Marshal Chrissie Latimore has more than 25 years of state, local and federal experience.

In her current role as the marshal of the federal District of South Carolina, Latimore leads a workforce of more than 200 professionals and 115 deputized court security officers, South Fulton officials said in a press release.

U.S. Marshal Chrissie Latimore (U.S. Marshals Service)

As the next chief of the South Fulton Police Department, she'll oversee a force of 306 authorized personnel and an operating budget of $33.3 million, serving more than 115,000 residents.

Latimore previously served as a military police officer in the U.S. Army, then continued her military service in the U.S. Army Reserve.

She also served as patrol lieutenant, administrative captain, assistant chief, and ultimately police chief with the Laurens, South Carolina, police department, and as a special agent with the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division.

Latimore will take over after a turbulent time within the police department. Former Chief Keith Meadows retired in January after several lawsuits alleged a toxic environment.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: South Fulton police chief retires amid lawsuits, internal investigation

 This is an important new chapter for public safety in our city,  said Mayor Carmalitha Gumbs said in a statement.  Our residents and our officers deserve strong, stable leadership that is focused on professionalism, accountability, and community trust. Chief Latimore brings significant experience and a clear understanding of what it takes to build and lead a department prepared for the future. 

On Oct. 22, Latimore will officially take over as the third police chief in the city's nine-year history. Her early priorities for the police department include building trust with officers and the community.

Cedric Alexander, South Fulton's interim managing public safety director, will conclude his tenure on Oct. 

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