Chief Whitehead began his law enforcement career in 1971 as a Military Policeman with the Georgia National Guard. He served at the Clarke County Police Department and its successor, Athens-Clarke County Police Department from 1977 until 1994 when he was selected to be the Chief of Police in Summerville, South Carolina .He served in Summerville until 2004 when he became the Chief of Police in Snellville. In addition to his duties as police chief, Roy was appointed the Interim City Manager for the City of Snellville and continues to serve as the Assistant City Manager.

Roy graduated from the University of Georgia with a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice. He attended law school at Georgia State University and took Master’s Courses at the Citadel. Chief Whitehead is a member of numerous boards and professional organizations.