The City of Broken Arrow has officially welcomed Chief Lance Arnold to lead its 160 officers and 75 professional staff members who support the mission of the Broken Arrow Police Department. 

Nearly 300 people witnessed Arnold take the oath of office administered by Presiding Judge Dennis Sagely in a swearing-in ceremony at the Broken Arrow High School Event Center on Jan. 7. 

"I couldn't be happier and more honored to be standing before you today," Arnold said. "I'm so honored to carry on your commitment to public safety and ensure that public safety remains the bedrock of a thriving community." 

Mayor Debra Wimpee highlighted the new police chief's extensive law enforcement background, having worked for over 20 years in Norman. He most recently served seven years as the Chief of Police in Weatherford, Texas, a suburb of Ft. Worth.  

"As we stand at the crossroads of progress and community safety, we recognize the vital role that law enforcement plays in maintaining the peace and security of our city," Wimpee said. "Chief Arnold's impressive law enforcement credentials and diverse background in municipal government make him the ideal person to be our 10th police Chief in the history of BAPD." 

Arnold thanked city leaders for their commitment to leading with character and excellence and for establishing an environment that fosters growth and enhances Broken Arrow's quality of life.  

"With your continued support, there's no doubt that the BAPD will continue to set the standard," he said.  

Arnold also assured members of the community that the police department will continue to provide exceptional services with an uncompromising commitment to professionalism, integrity, courage, and accountability.  

"Your expectations are high, and quite frankly, they should be," Arnold said. "I can promise you that they will never be as high as the expectations we put on ourselves at BAPD." 

Arnold also appreciated the city's law enforcement partnerships with other jurisdictions.  

"For our partners, the Muskogee Creek Nation, Wagoner County, Tulsa County, and our local and state partners, rest assured that at BAPD, we believe that a rising tide lifts all ships," Arnold said. "We are dedicated to positive and proactive collaboration that ensures the success of all." 

City Manager Michael Spurgeon said interviews were conducted by various people over a number of days and emphasized Arnold's effective communication skills and ability to listen to those he leads. 

"There's no question in my mind that we have found the right person...What also impressed me is that he has experience as an Assistant City Manager, so he understands the challenges of trying to implement public policy, not only from a chief's perspective but also from the administration's perspective, which is not always easy."  

Spurgeon expressed confidence that Arnold will continue to build upon the strong foundation that exists within the city.  

One of those involved in the interviewing process included Fraternal Order of Police President Capt. Brandon Tener who said he was privileged to be a part of the process.  

"I have been with BAPD for just over 22 years, and this is my fifth chief, but it is the first time I've been invited to participate in the hiring process, and I don't take this lightly," Tener said. "The final selection of Chief Arnold reflects on the relationship between the City of Broken Arrow and the Fraternal Order of Police #170. Broken Arrow and the FOP have proven that the collaboration between management and labor is a winning combination. Chief Arnold brings fresh ideas and approaches, which I believe will propel BAPD forward, ensuring that we are ready to meet the challenges of our thriving city." 

In addition to the FOP, City Manager Michael Spurgeon also engaged the City Council, members of the police department, various other department directors within the city, and the chaplains in the hiring process. 

Arnold says the police department's core values will focus on continuous learning, teamwork, and leading by example of character and excellence. He’s impressed by the department's personnel and their individual and collective potential. 

"Together, we will foster a culture where we can all thrive and flourish, and when that happens, that creates the greatest opportunity for our community also to thrive and flourish," Arnold said.