ALPBA Foundation Scholarship Recipient Cade Caufield

Jan 7, 2026

By Cindy Baugher

Just a few months after graduating high school in June 2025, Cade Caufield is already employed in law enforcement full time. Serving in his chosen field, he has a definite end-goal firmly in mind and the scholarship he earned recently from the Police Benevolent Foundation will help him reach his long-term objective.

Caufield and his best friend (Officer Trent Hogan - Gardendale PD) at National Night Out

Currently a public safety dispatcher with the Gardendale (AL) Police Department, Caufield is responsible for dispatching the police and fire departments, as well as working the city jail. As a student at Jefferson State Community College, he is majoring in law enforcement. It was his choice of major that qualified him to apply for the Foundation scholarship, an award earmarked for students planning a career in law enforcement. As for Jefferson State, Caufield calls it the right fit for him “because of its strong criminal justice program, convenient location, and affordability.”

Caufield lists several people who have had an impact on his decision to become a police officer. First, was his grandfather, who he calls one of the greatest influences in his life. Caufield said, “He served in law enforcement and taught me the value of service, integrity, and hard work. His legacy is one I hope to carry forward.”

In addition to his grandfather, members of the Gardendale force have also served as examples for him. He noted, “I'm incredibly appreciative of the many law enforcement officers in my life who have taken time to talk with me, answer my questions, and offer their advice and mentorship over the years. Their willingness to invest in me has shaped who I am and who I hope to become as a future officer. I'm grateful for their influence and proud to follow in their footsteps.”

Caufield and Det. Sean Morro (Gardendale PD) & Det. Buddy Partridge (Gardendale PD) at a Career Fair held at Gardendale High School

A role model Caufield has admired from a distance is Sheriff Grady Judd of Polk County, Florida. He said, “I admire his bold leadership style, unwavering commitment to law and order, and fearless communication in challenging the status quo. His no-nonsense attitude and emphasis on community safety stand out as qualities I strive to emulate.”

A native of Gardendale, Alabama, Caufield easily brags about his hometown. “Gardendale is a close-knit community where everyone seems to know each other. Growing up here meant being surrounded by familiar faces, supportive neighbors, and a strong sense of local pride. What made it special to me was the genuine care people have for one another and the shared values that make this place feel like home.”

He and his younger brother Colt were brought up in a hard-working family with encouraging parents. Caufield said, “My parents have always been my biggest supporters, and their example taught me the value of commitment and service.”

His parents led by example on the importance of hard work, too, as evidenced by his extensive list of extracurriculars and volunteer work. Caufield served as the president of Student Council, a member of the National Honor Society, and was an Ambassador for Gardendale High School. He also spent time contributing to the Superintendent’s Advisory Board for Jefferson County Schools, was involved with the National Technical Honor Society, and worked with the Gardendale High football team as the operations manager.

Caufield and Chief Scott Banks (Gardendale PD) & Mayor Stan Hogeland (Of Gardendale) at the Jefferson County Mayor’s & Law Enforcement Action Summit

Law enforcement officers are very service-minded individuals and Caufield is no exception to this, even while he was in high school. He enjoyed volunteering to help with youth football programs, helped the Rotary Club run city events, and was (and still is) on call for random tasks that popped up at the Gardendale Police Department. He also runs the audio-mixing board for worship events at Gardendale First Baptist Church. Through all these commitments his academics never took a backseat, either. He maintained an impressive 4.0 cumulative GPA. Now in college, he continues to be active in community and police department-related outreach, such as the recent National Night Out in Gardendale.

Caufield said, “I'm majoring in Law Enforcement. I chose this major because I've always felt called to serve and protect others, and a career in policing is the best way for me to do that. After college, I plan to become a police officer with the Gardendale Police Department and work my way up through the ranks. My ultimate goal is to become Chief of Police one day.”

When not working at the Gardendale PD, Caufield has several other interests to help him take a break from police work. He enjoys creating media content (especially motorsports coverage), spending time outdoors, and working out. An unusual interest turned side-hustle of his is refereeing high school basketball. Moving up to refereeing at the college level is something he’s looking forward to in the future.

With his career path planned out, college courses underway, and daily work experience in law enforcement adding to his knowledge, Caufield is well set to reach his long-term goals. His favorite verse, Proverbs 28:1, is sure to be a guiding sentiment for him: "The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are bold as a lion." He says the verse reminds him to stand firm in his values, lead with courage, and to never back down from doing what's right.

Steve Johnson President of the Jefferson/Shelby county chapter of the Alabama Police Benevolent Association presents a check to Cade Caufield

Caufield is appreciative of being selected for the Foundation scholarship. “Receiving this scholarship means a great deal to me,” he said. “It not only helps relieve financial pressure but also shows that others believe in my future. I'm extremely grateful for the support.”