Shively has entered a new chapter after Andre Bottoms was sworn in as the city’s first Black police chief. The ceremony at Shively City Hall drew family members, neighbors, fellow officers, and community leaders who gathered to celebrate the milestone.
While many recognized the historic nature of his appointment, Bottoms made it clear that he wants his leadership to be measured by his actions. He said he hopes people will remember his character, integrity, and commitment to serving the police department and the community.
“I really want to be judged on my character, my integrity, and what I do for the police department,” Bottoms said.
Andre Bottoms Brings More Than 32 Years of Law Enforcement Experience
Bottoms takes over the department after more than three decades in law enforcement. His career has included service across several agencies, giving him experience in policing, investigations, and public safety leadership.
He was promoted to major with the Shively Police Department in 2023. Before joining Shively’s leadership team, he spent two and a half years with Metro Alcohol Beverage Control. There, he earned recognition as the 2022 ABC Detective of the Year.
Earlier in his career, Bottoms also served with the Audubon Park Police Department, the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, and the Louisville Metro Police Department. Alongside his policing career, he served in the United States Marine Corps Reserves.
Serving His Hometown as Shively’s First Black Police Chief
For Bottoms, the appointment carries personal meaning beyond the title. He grew up in Shively and now has the opportunity to lead the same community that helped shape his life.
During his swearing-in ceremony, he reflected on that journey with gratitude. He described the opportunity as both humbling and deeply rewarding.
“There’s something special about being given the opportunity to serve a community that helped shape who you are,” he said.
His appointment also represents an important moment for the city. Community members now see someone leading the department whose life story closely reflects the people he serves.
Family Values Continue to Shape Andre Bottoms’ Leadership Style
Bottoms credits much of his approach to policing to lessons from his grandmother. Although she supported his decision to join law enforcement, her own experiences with police made her cautious.
She encouraged him to treat every person fairly, regardless of the situation. Those words became the foundation of his career.
“She always told me, ‘Baby, just treat everybody fair.’ That’s what I’ve tried to do my whole career,” Bottoms said.
That advice has guided him through every position he has held. It also continues to influence how he plans to lead the Shively Police Department.
Community Trust and Mentorship Lead Andre Bottoms’ Vision
As police chief, Bottoms wants to strengthen relationships between officers and residents. He believes trust grows when people feel respected and heard.
His priorities include expanding community engagement and mentoring younger officers. He also wants future leaders to understand the value of fairness and accountability.
Bottoms believes representation also plays an important role in building stronger communities. Seeing leaders from different backgrounds can encourage greater confidence in public institutions.
“I think it means a lot for the community when they see people that look like them, that are actually there to help, to listen to their concerns and do the right thing by them,” he said. “I think that goes a long way.”
A New Chapter for the Shively Police Department
Bottoms begins his tenure at a time when many police departments are working to strengthen public confidence. His experience across multiple agencies gives him a broad understanding of both policing and community service.
Supporters believe his leadership style will focus on listening, fairness, and collaboration. Those qualities have defined his career for more than three decades.
As Shively’s first Black police chief, Bottoms is entering the role with a clear mission. He wants to build trust, mentor future officers, and serve the city with integrity. His appointment marks not only an important milestone for the department but also the beginning of a new era of community-focused leadership.
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