Matt Cowdin
Assistant Police Chief
The City of Galena and the Galena Kansas Police Department are proud to have Assistant Police Chief Matt Cowdin serving our community. Matt joined the Galena Police Department on September 1, 2025, bringing with him a wealth of law enforcement experience, leadership, education, and knowledge of the criminal justice system.
Before joining the Galena Police Department, Matt served as the Director of the Criminal Justice Program at Missouri Southern State University, where he was involved in educating and preparing students for careers in law enforcement and the criminal justice field. His experience in higher education has provided him with a strong understanding of professional development, training, leadership, and the importance of preparing the next generation of criminal justice professionals.
Matt also brings many years of law enforcement experience with the Joplin Police Department, where he gained extensive experience serving the community and working in various aspects of police operations. His years in law enforcement have given him valuable firsthand knowledge of the challenges faced by today’s police officers and the importance of building positive relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
Throughout his career, Matt has demonstrated a commitment to professionalism, leadership, education, and community service. His combination of practical law enforcement experience and his background in criminal justice education makes him a tremendous asset to the Galena Police Department.
As Assistant Police Chief, Matt works alongside the Chief of Police and the officers of the Galena Police Department to help provide effective, professional, and community-focused law enforcement services to the citizens of Galena.
The City of Galena is grateful to have someone with Matt’s extensive experience and knowledge serving our community. We look forward to the continued leadership, dedication, and positive impact he will bring to the Galena Kansas Police Department and the citizens we proudly serve.