Lafayette Reporter

The search for Lafayette's new Chief of Police has progressed with the approval of civil service exam scores, a crucial step in the selection process. This decision was made by the Lafayette Municipal Fire and Police Civil Service Board during a public meeting on January 29, 2025.

The list of candidates who passed the exam will be sent to the administration. The next stages include preliminary background checks and interviews conducted by Mayor-President Monique B. Boulet along with a panel comprising community leaders and Lafayette City Council members.

The interview panel will evaluate candidates based on leadership skills, public safety strategies, and their vision for the future of the police department. Panel members include Marshal Reggie Thomas, businessman Mark Guidry, Pastor Bobby Richard, Annie Spell, Ph.D., Pastor Deborah Young, City Council Chair Kenneth Boudreaux, Vice Chair Liz Hebert, and Councilmen Elroy Broussard, Thomas Hooks, and Andy Naquin.

Mayor-President Boulet emphasized her commitment to a fair search process aimed at selecting a leader who will provide stability and strong leadership. "The interview panel’s diverse perspectives will be invaluable in ensuring we find the best candidate to lead the department and Lafayette forward," stated Boulet.

The final decision on Lafayette's Chief of Police is expected by the end of Q1 2025.