GOSHEN, Ind. — Mayor Gina Leichty has named Andy Stephenson as Goshen’s next police chief, selecting a veteran law enforcement leader with more than three decades of experience in policing, training and leadership development.
Stephenson will succeed Chief Jose’ Miller, who is retiring in June 2026 after decades of service to the department and the Goshen community.
“Chief Miller served this department and community with unwavering dedication for decades, and Goshen is stronger because of his leadership,” Leichty said. “We are grateful for the foundation he built and for the officers and staff who continue that work every day.”
Law Enforcement Leadership and Service
As the department prepares for its next chapter, Leichty said Stephenson brings extensive law enforcement experience and a leadership approach that positions the department for continued growth.
“Andy Stephenson has established a remarkable record of strengthening community safety through effective policing, strong team leadership, and a deep commitment to recruiting and developing officers,” Leichty said.
Stephenson’s career spans more than 30 years of law enforcement across jurisdictions in Indiana and North Carolina. He began his law enforcement career in Bloomington, Indiana, with the Indiana University Police Department, where he rose through the ranks from cadet to captain during a 22-year tenure overseeing patrol, investigations, training, and community outreach operations.
He later served as chief of police at Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina, leading a department of approximately 70 sworn officers while overseeing police operations, emergency management, and public safety programs.
As chief, Stephenson established a nationally recognized police academy and officer development program designed to strengthen recruitment, training, and leadership development for law enforcement agencies.
Today, he directs law enforcement training for the University of North Carolina System, overseeing professional development programs supporting more than 560 sworn officers across 16 public universities.
Strengthening Recruitment and Officer Development
Leichty said Stephenson’s leadership in creating an award-winning regional police training academy during his tenure as a police chief was a distinguishing qualification in the selection process.
“Departments everywhere are facing challenges with recruitment and retention,” Leichty said. “Andy didn’t just talk about those challenges; he helped build a model that supports officers throughout their careers while strengthening departments across an entire region. That kind of experience will be incredibly valuable for Goshen and for our public safety partners across northern Indiana.”
Stephenson’s experience building collaborative training and leadership development programs, Leichty added, will create meaningful professional growth and regional partnership opportunities for Goshen officers.
Leichty also emphasized the department’s strong leadership that is already in place.
“Our division chiefs, assistant chief, and command staff possess deep experience and commitment to this community,” she said. “Andy’s background in recruitment and officer development adds another important dimension that will strengthen the department.”
Stephenson’s official start date as the City of Goshen’s 23rd police chief will be May 1, 2026. He will work alongside Chief Jose’ Miller during a transition period designed to ensure continuity of leadership before assuming full responsibilities following Miller’s June 12 retirement.
Stephenson said his career has centered on helping departments grow stronger from within while deepening their connection to the communities they serve.
“Supporting officers and helping police departments have a positive impact on the quality of life in their communities has been a passion of mine throughout my career,” Stephenson said. “I’m honored by the opportunity to serve the Goshen community and work alongside the dedicated officers and public safety partners who help keep this city safe.”
Thoughtful Selection Process
Leichty said the decision followed a thorough selection process that included input from both the department and broader community.
“Selecting a police chief is one of the most significant responsibilities entrusted to a mayor,” Leichty said. “We saw exceptional leadership from the candidates who stepped forward. Their professionalism, dedication, and deep knowledge of this community reflect the strength of the Goshen Police Department, and that strong foundation allowed us to focus on what additional experience would best position the department for the future.”
The process included interviews with all candidates, input from department personnel, conversations with community stakeholders, and extensive reference and background checks with agencies where candidates previously served.
“This decision requires deep trust from both the department and the community,” Leichty said. “I’m grateful to every candidate who stepped forward, the community members who helped inform this process, and especially the officers and staff of the Goshen Police Department who serve the residents of this city each day.”
Details regarding Chief Stephenson’s swearing-in ceremony and a public introduction to the community will be announced closer to his official start date in May.
About Goshen, Indiana
The City of Goshen, located in the heart of Elkhart County in northern Indiana, is home to more than 34,000 residents and serves as the county seat. Founded in 1831, Goshen combines a strong tradition of civic leadership with a vibrant arts, education, and business community.
Known as “The Maple City,” Goshen features a historic downtown, nationally recognized parks and trails, and a commitment to public service, sustainability, and community engagement. City government works collaboratively with residents, businesses, and community partners to promote a high quality of life and support a safe, welcoming community for all.