November 6, 2026
Donnie Ransom has been officially selected to serve as the Chief of Police for the Fraser Winter Park Police Department (FWPPD). Donnie, who has been with the FWPPD since 2012, most recently served as the department's Interim Police Chief following Chief Glen Trainor’s retirement in June 2026. Throughout his time with FWPPD, Ransom served as a Patrol Officer from 2012-2017, a Patrol Sergeant from 2017-2018, and as the Commander of Police from 2018-2026.
Ransom was one of three finalists interviewed by Winter Park leadership, staff, government partners, and other regional response leaders on November 2. That same day, the finalists also attended a meet-and-greet at Town Hall, where community members and elected officials were able to meet the candidates and provide feedback.
“This was an extremely competitive process,” said Town Manager Jon Peacock. “Donnie really stood out based on community trust and the ability to maintain the strong culture and reliable community service our department is known for."
Before joining the FWPPD, Ransom served in the U.S. Army, where he held three positions and ultimately served as a platoon sergeant. He continued serving in the Army Reserve while working for the FWPPD.
As the Commander of Police, Ransom prioritized servant leadership and leading by example, taking calls in the community and exemplifying community policing and the standard to which other officers are held within the FWPPD. He plans to bring this same belief to his role as Chief while preserving the legacy and standards established by former FWPPD Chief Glen Trainor, who served for 21 years, ensuring that Chief Trainor's leadership, accomplishments, and professional standards continue in the department for years to come.
In addition to preserving this legacy, Ransom plans to build on that foundation by strengthening recruitment and retention in the department, initiating planning for a new police department facility, and maintaining strong interagency relations. A top priority will be supporting officers in delivering a standard of excellence to the community while modernizing the department to support community growth.
Transitioning from FWPPD Interim Chief of Police to Chief of Police, Donnie will officially begin serving as the Chief on Nov. 9.
