New Greeneville Police Chief Josh Pierce announced his new second in command Tuesday, telling the City Council “We have selected Eddie Key as the Assistant Chief.
Key told those in attendance “I was blessed in 2005 when Mac Jones hired me as an auxiliary officer, I was more blessed in 2011 when Terry Cannon hired me as full time officer. I’ve enjoyed my time. I had no desire to go anywhere else.”
Key will begin his new duties July 12th and will be officially sworn in July 17th.
EDDIE KEY BIO FROM TOWN OF GREENEVILLE
As Assistant Chief of Police, Key will serve as second-in-command of the department, assisting Chief Josh Pierce with the leadership and day-to-day operations of the Greeneville Police Department. His responsibilities include supervising department personnel, overseeing training and professional development, helping develop policies and procedures, managing budgets and departmental records, evaluating employee performance, coordinating with local, state, and federal law enforcement partners, and strengthening community relationships through public outreach. In the Chief’s absence, Key will assume responsibility for leading the department and ensuring the continued delivery of effective public safety services to the Town of Greeneville.
A graduate of Chuckey-Doak High School, Key brings 20 years of law enforcement experience to his new role. He began his career with the Greeneville Police Department as an auxiliary officer in 2005 before being hired as a full-time patrol officer in 2011.
Throughout his career, Key has steadily advanced through the department’s ranks. He became a K-9 handler in 2014, was promoted to Patrol Lieutenant in 2019, and earned the rank of Captain in May 2025.
In addition to his field experience, Key has demonstrated a strong commitment to professional development and leadership. He is a graduate of the Southeastern Leadership Academy (SELA) and earned a Certification in Law Enforcement Leadership after completing 248 hours of leadership training through the University of Tennessee Law Enforcement Innovation Center.
“It is an honor and privilege to serve the Town of Greeneville as the Assistant Chief of Police,” said Key. “I would like to thank all of my co-workers, past and present, my former supervisors, and my family for their support, encouragement, and guidance over the years. I look forward to working with Chief Pierce and the employees of the Greeneville Police Department to ensure that this department becomes the best that it can be.”
Police Chief Pierce praised Key’s promotion and the leadership he has demonstrated throughout his career.
“I’ve had the privilege of working alongside Eddie for many years, and I’ve seen firsthand the kind of leader he is,” said Chief Pierce. “He leads by example, treats people with respect, and genuinely cares about both our officers and the community we serve. His promotion to Assistant Chief is a reflection of years of hard work, dedication, and earned respect. I know he will continue to help move our department forward, and I look forward to serving alongside him in this new role.”
