Christopher Dowell is a dedicated public servant with deep roots in Arizona and a distinguished career in law enforcement and community service. As a second-generation Arizonan, his family's history in the state dates back to the 1950s, with ties to Prescott, Cottonwood, and the Verde Valley, before settling in the Phoenix area.
After graduating from high school, Dowell enlisted in the United States Army, serving nearly eight years as a Military Police Officer. In response to the events of September 11, 2001, he reenlisted in the Army Reserves, dedicating an additional six years as a Military Police Instructor, where he taught leadership and Military Police reclassification courses.
In 1997, Dowell began his civilian law enforcement career with the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office. Over two decades, he rose to the rank of Lieutenant, undertaking various assignments that showcased his leadership and dedication to community safety. In 2017, he joined the Cottonwood Police Department, serving as a Patrol Officer, Field Training Officer, K-9 Officer, Patrol Sergeant Commander, and ultimately as Interim Chief of Police for 13 months. During his tenure, he initiated community-focused programs, including the Outreach Services Officer position, aimed at assisting the unsheltered population by connecting them with essential resources and support.
Dowell's commitment to community service extends beyond law enforcement. He has volunteered in various capacities, including coaching youth sports, serving on homeowners' association boards, and participating in municipal commissions such as the Town of Youngtown Code Advisory Commission and the City of Cottonwood Planning and Zoning Commission. He is also a board member of the Law Enforcement Heroes Charity, the Verde Valley Homeless Coalition, the Verde Valley Humane Society, and Verde Valley Leadership.
Academically, Dowell holds a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice and has completed numerous leadership courses, including the Northwestern University Center for Public Safety School of Police Staff and Command. In August 2024, he was appointed Deputy Chief of Police in Sedona, overseeing Patrol, Investigations, Fleet, and SWAT operations.
Dowell's personal life is deeply intertwined with the Verde Valley. He met his wife, Dana, during his service with the sheriff’s office. Dana's family has resided in the Verde Valley since the early 1960s, and she herself served as a police officer, which is where she and Christopher met. They were married at the Clarkdale Park gazebo and have two children, Madison and Kagan, both Northern Arizona University graduates. Madison earned a degree in Biology and recently graduated from Yavapai College as a Registered Nurse. Kagan holds a degree in Psychology and works for the City of Sedona Court, aspiring to attend law school.
In November 2024, Dowell was elected to the Cottonwood City Council. His extensive experience in law enforcement, leadership, and engagement positions him as a valuable asset to the council, where he is committed to serving the residents of Cottonwood with integrity and dedication.