Historic police chief already making changes in Pembroke

PEMBROKE, Ga. (WTOC) - Brenda Tyson has spent nearly two decades in law enforcement, but now she’s making history in her hometown.

Tyson is the first female police chief in the city of Pembroke, a role she stepped into in September after years of leadership under former Chief William Collins.

“I take it seriously. This is my community—this is where I grew up. This is the place I wanted to serve,” Tyson said.

She said becoming the city’s first female chief is still something she is processing.

“To be the first female chief… I’m still wrapping my head around that, because this is many, many years in the making,” she said.

Since taking on the role, Tyson has focused on strengthening the city’s court system by helping bring in a solicitor for Pembroke’s municipal court. The position is intended to help handle cases more efficiently and support the legal process.

Tyson said she believes it is the first time the city has had someone in that role.

“We don’t always know some of the things an attorney can do that can help a case better, so having the right person in that position is something I can feel very proud to be a part of,” she said.

She is also focused on expanding community outreach and hiring additional officers, saying she wants to build stronger relationships before problems arise.

“If you don’t have the heart to do those things, and it’s always about ‘I’m going to lock somebody up,’ you’re losing the point of what law enforcement is really about,” Tyson said.

Tyson added that her leadership style is rooted in listening to the community that shaped her and encouraging others to pursue their goals.

“If they need to come to me, they will be heard. If you have a goal you want to get to—don’t give up,” she said.