[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 129 (Thursday, August 6, 2026)]
[Senate]
[Pages S4509-S4510]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    REMEMBERING SHERIFF SAM COCHRAN

 Mrs. BRITT. Mr. President, I am honored to recognize the life, 
legacy, and extraordinary service of Mobile native Sheriff Sam Cochran. 
After nearly five decades of service to our great State, Sheriff 
Cochran will be remembered for his extraordinary integrity, courage, 
and unwavering commitment to protecting others.
  Sheriff Cochran was born and raised in Mobile, a community he spent a 
lifetime serving. After graduating from McGill-Toolen High School and 
earning both a bachelor's degree in criminal justice and a master's 
degree in public administration from the University of South Alabama, 
he began a lifelong career in law enforcement. He was nominated to and 
graduated from the prestigious FBI National Academy, a testament to his 
character, leadership, and heart for public service.
  For over 31 years, Sheriff Cochran served with the Mobile Police 
Department, beginning as a police cadet and eventually rising through 
the ranks to become chief of police. During his decade as chief of MPD, 
he earned the trust and respect of both his fellow officers and the 
citizens he served through his principled leadership, dedication to 
bettering his community, and steadfast commitment to public safety.
  In 2006, the Mobile County community elected him to serve as sheriff. 
During his four terms, Sheriff Cochran created an effective and 
respected law

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enforcement department. His efforts resulted in a safer place to live, 
work, and raise a family. His proudest accomplishment, though, was 
leading the fight against the methamphetamine epidemic and championing 
legislation that strengthened controls on pseudoephedrine purchases, 
which dramatically reduced methamphetamine production across our State. 
His efforts no doubt saved thousands of lives and protected countless 
families in Mobile and across the State of Alabama.
  Sheriff Cochran was committed to sharing knowledge, wisdom, and 
inspiration with the next generation of law enforcement officers. His 
mentorship prepared and encouraged many to lead with the same 
integrity, devotion, and kindness he exhibited throughout his career. 
In 2015, he was appointed to serve as a commissioner on the Alabama 
Peace Officers' Standards and Training Commission. His work helped 
shape future law enforcement officers, properly set training standards, 
and influenced officials throughout Alabama.
  Sheriff Cochran's service extended far beyond the badge. He devoted 
decades of his life to organizations that uplifted and protected 
others, including the Drug Education Council, where he served for 26 
years and was honored with the Joseph Treadwell Award in recognition of 
his leadership in prevention and education. He also generously gave his 
time to the Child Advocacy Center, Penelope House, the Alabama Safety 
Institute, the Boy Scouts of America, the Mobile County Communications 
District, and numerous other civic organizations dedicated to 
strengthening our communities.
  Those who knew Sheriff Cochran understood that, to him, leadership 
was never about recognition; it was about service, earning trust, 
leading with character, and leaving every institution stronger than he 
found it. His life stands as a testament to the enduring values of 
duty, honor, and selfless service.
  Today, I proudly honor Sheriff Sam Cochran, his lifetime of faithful 
service, and his passion for leadership. He leaves behind an 
extraordinary legacy that will continue to inspire future generations. 
May we honor his memory by striving to serve our communities with the 
same integrity, humility, and dedication that defined his remarkable 
life.

                          ____________________