Representative Russell Bedsole

Russell Bedsole is a Republican member of the Alabama House of Representatives representing District 49. He is also a career law enforcement officer with extensive experience in local public safety. Bedsole began his law enforcement career in 1998 in Lee County, Alabama, and soon afterward joined the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office in 1999, where he has held various leadership roles. He advanced to the rank of Major, commanding the Operations Bureau and serving in positions such as Patrol Deputy, Narcotics K‑9 Handler, Criminal Investigator, Crisis Negotiator, and instructor for Standardized Field Sobriety Tests. He oversaw the process that earned the Sheriff’s Office its first Level 1 Accreditation in jail operations from the National Institute for Jail Operations.

In addition to his law enforcement career, Bedsole served on the Alabaster City Council for Ward 5 for several years prior to entering the state legislature. He has also been active in community service, including work with Kenya Relief, an organization involved in international humanitarian efforts.

Bedsole was elected to the Alabama House of Representatives in November 2020 and assumed office on December 7, 2020, succeeding former Representative April Weaver, who left the seat to join the Trump administration. He represents a district that includes parts of Shelby, Bibb, and Chilton counties. As of 2026, he continues to serve in the House and is scheduled to face re‑election in the next regular cycle.

Education

Russell Bedsole earned his bachelor’s degree from Auburn University in 1998. He later obtained a Master of Science in Public Administration from Troy University in 2005. He has also completed advanced leadership training, including the National Jail Leadership Command Academy and the FBI National Academy . These programs reflect his focus on professional development in law enforcement management and executive leadership.

Political Experience

Russell Bedsole is a Republican representing District 49 in the Alabama House of Representatives. He currently serves as Vice Chair of the House Committee on Shelby County Legislation, a role that highlights his focus on regional issues affecting his district.

Prior to serving in the state legislature, Bedsole was a member of the Alabaster City Council for Ward 5, where he gained local government experience and developed a reputation for community engagement. His background in law enforcement, combined with municipal and state‑level service, has shaped his legislative priorities around public safety, criminal justice reform, and local government issues.