Chad Rhoads has been appointed as the new Chief of Police for the City of Martinsville, with his term beginning on January 1, 2026. Rhoads currently serves as Acting Chief and has over 25 years of experience with the Martinsville Police Department.
His career includes roles such as Deputy Chief, Captain, Lieutenant, Sergeant, Criminal Investigator, and Patrol Officer. He is recognized as a VACP Certified Law Enforcement Command Executive and has completed leadership programs at the Police Executive Research Forum’s Senior Management Institute for Police and the University of Richmond’s Professional Executive Leadership School. Rhoads holds a Master of Science in Criminal Justice and Administrative Leadership from Averett University.
Rhoads has led initiatives like forming the department’s Peer Support Team and updating departmental policies. He also teaches at Averett University and is a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, where he served as a cryptologic linguist.
He has received more than 50 letters of commendation and multiple Outstanding Instructor Awards during his career.
“Chief Rhoads has earned the respect of his colleagues and the trust of the community through his integrity, professionalism, and dedication to public service,” said Interim City Manager Rob Fincher. “We are confident he will continue to lead the department with excellence and vision.”
Rhoads will officially take on his new role at the start of next year.
