Farmville Police Chief Anthony Q. "Andy" Ellington Sr. Retires After Four Decades of Service

FARMVILLE, VA — The Town of Farmville announces the upcoming retirement of Chief of Police Anthony Q. "Andy" Ellington Sr., effective October 1, 2026. 

Chief Ellington has served as the Farmville Police Department’s leader since October 2016, capping off a remarkable law enforcement career that spans nearly 40 years of dedicated service to the Farmville community. 

Throughout his ten-year tenure as Chief, Ellington has successfully overseen the strategic planning, fiscal management, and daily operations of the department, commanding a dedicated team of sworn officers, command staff, and civilian personnel. 

"Chief Ellington’s legacy is defined by forward-thinking leadership, a deep commitment to regional training, and an unwavering dedication to community trust," the department said in a statement. 

A Career of Steady Advancement and Innovation 

Chief Ellington began his journey with the Farmville Police Department in 1987 as a Communications Officer. In October 1989, he graduated from the Central Virginia Criminal Justice Academy in Lynchburg to officially become a Patrolman. 

Driven by a desire to expand the department's specialized investigative capabilities, Chief Ellington completed the Virginia State Police Narcotics K-9 Handler Course in 1990. Using this expertise, he developed and created the Farmville Police Department's first Narcotics Unit in 1993. 

His career is marked by a steady rise through the ranks and a diverse range of services, including roles as: 

• Narcotics Investigator 
• DEA Task Force Officer (federal service spanning 2002–2010) 
• Sergeant 
• Special Operations Lieutenant 
• Patrol Division Lieutenant 
• Deputy Chief 

In 2016, Chief Ellington graduated from Session 38 of the Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police Professional Executive Leadership School (PELS) at the University of Richmond. That same year, just prior to his appointment as permanent Chief, he served as a critical member of the Command Center during the historic 2016 U.S. Vice Presidential Debate at Longwood University, successfully coordinating complex public safety operations alongside the United States Secret Service and various state and local law enforcement agencies. 

Shaping the Future of Law Enforcement and Community Relations 

As Chief, Ellington prioritizes institutional excellence and modern community policing. Having previously served as the department’s Accreditation Manager, his executive leadership ensured the Farmville Police Department consistently maintained its prestigious state accreditation through the Virginia Law Enforcement Professional Standards Commission (VLEPC). 

In a proactive effort to strengthen local trust and transparency, Chief Ellington established the department’s first-ever Citizen Advisory Board, fostering closer collaboration and outreach between officers and residents. 

His influence also extends to regional law enforcement education. He served on the advisory board that created the Leadership Institute for Tomorrow's Executive Program (LIFTE) at Liberty University’s Helms School of Government. Since January 2020, he has brought his career full circle by serving as a Board Member for his alma mater, the Central Virginia Criminal Justice Academy. 

Honors and Accolades 

Over his lifelong career of public service, Chief Ellington has been recognized with numerous prestigious awards, including: 

• 2003: DEA Certificate of Appreciation for Outstanding Contributions 
• 2005: U.S. Attorney's Office Award for Public Service 
• 2015: Robert Shackleton Community Service Award 

A Well-Earned Next Chapter 

Upon his official retirement in October 2026, Chief Ellington looks forward to passing the torch to the next generation of leadership and entering a new chapter focused entirely on family. He anticipates spending quality time with Tracey, his wife of 30 years, their three children (Jennifer, Kenneth, and Quinton), their spouses, and his seven beautiful grandchildren. 

The Town of Farmville and the Farmville Police Department proudly express their sincere appreciation to Chief Ellington for his historic service, steadfast integrity, and distinguished leadership. Throughout his career, he has exemplified professionalism, commitment, and a deep dedication to the citizens of Farmville. We extend our heartfelt thanks for his lasting contributions and wish him continued happiness, good health, and fulfillment in his well-deserved retirement.