Cleveland, TN – The Cleveland Police Department is in mourning alongside the Winder family following the passing of Retired CPD Lieutenant Tim Winder. Winder, who dedicated 36 years to the CPD before retiring in 2018, was a beloved member of the force and community. Arrangements will be posted at a later time, and the department asks that everyone keep Winder’s family and colleagues in their thoughts during this difficult period.
Lieutenant Tim Winder began his law enforcement career at just 19 years old in January 1977 at the McMinn County Sheriff’s Department. Three years later, he transferred to the Athens Police Department, where he served until 1982. In September of that year, Winder joined the Cleveland City Police Department, marking the beginning of a distinguished career.
During his tenure with the CPD, Lieutenant Winder held numerous roles, including patrol officer, SWAT team member, field training officer, patrol corporal, patrol sergeant, patrol lieutenant, and SWAT commander.
Starting in July 2007, he led the Cleveland Police Department Training Division as a lieutenant and served as the generalized department instructor, as well as the department’s firearms and defensive tactics instructor.
In his retirement, Lieutenant Winder continued his service to the community with the Bradley County Sheriff’s Office. He also enjoyed spending time with his family, working on his farm, and watching his grandchildren play.
The Cleveland Police Department and the community will deeply miss Lieutenant Tim Winder, remembering his dedication and impact on those he served and worked with.