Davenport Police Department History

Department History

The Davenport Police Department was established in 1915 and serves the City of Davenport in northeast Polk County, approximately 20 miles southwest of Orlando. The department’s jurisdiction covers approximately five square miles.

In recent years, the City has experienced significant growth, with the population increasing from approximately 4,946 residents to over 11,000, and continuing to grow with new development.

Early History

Before Davenport became an incorporated town, the federal government appointed T.J. McKnight as the first Marshal. Following 1918, a series of Marshals served the community as the town continued to develop.

When the Town government was formed in 1915, the Marshal and Treasurer-Clerk were its only employees. For many years, staffing remained minimal, with the Chief of Police often serving on call 24 hours a day and fulfilling multiple roles within the community.

Growth and Development

As the City grew, so did the responsibilities of the Police Department. In earlier years, law enforcement officers often managed additional duties such as fire response, water system operations, and street maintenance.

Over time, the department evolved into a modern law enforcement agency focused on professional service, public safety, and community engagement.

Marshals and Police Chiefs of Davenport

• T.J. McKnight, Marshal (1915–1918; 1920–1921)
• L.G. Kimler, Marshal (1919–1920; 1934–1937)
• O.I. Lenfers, Marshal (1920–1921, part-time)
• W.S. Ingram, Marshal (1921–1922)
• Fred Kimler, Marshal (1922–1923)
• Fred Mincey, Marshal (1923–1924)
• L.H. Roehlk, Marshal (1927–1933)
• J.A. Kirkland, Marshal (1938–1942)
• Walter Wilkes, Marshal (1943–1952); Police Chief (1952–1956)
• Bethel Judy, Police Chief (1956–1965; 1968)
• Edward Johnson, Police Chief (1966–1967)
• C.W. McMullen, Police Chief (1969)
• Garland Moore, Police Chief (1970–1973)
• Larry Johnson, Police Chief (1974–1977)
• Arlos Dodson, Police Chief (1978)
• Thomas “Tom” Rademacher, Police Chief (1979–1992)
• H.B. “Rob” Robinson III, Police Chief (1992–1999)
• Charles Clements, Police Chief (1999–2012)
• Larry Holden, Police Chief (2013–2022)
• Steven Parker, Police Chief (2022–Present)

 

The Davenport Police Department has a long-standing history of dedicated service, evolving from a small-town operation with limited staff into a progressive and growing agency.

Throughout its history, the department has remained committed to serving the community, adapting to change, and maintaining strong relationships with the residents of Davenport.

 

Notable Recognition

On April 19, 2021, the Davenport City Commission adopted a proclamation honoring longtime Davenport Police Officer Walter James Henderson for his 37 years of dedicated service to the community.

Officer Henderson was the department’s first African-American police officer, serving from 1968 until his retirement as a Lieutenant in 2005. He was known throughout the community for his kindness, steady presence, and commitment to the residents he served.