Department History

Overview
Since before the turn of the century, law enforcement has been an important part of City government. The City of Burleson adopted an ordinance on March 11, 1960, establishing a permanent police department and creating the position of chief of police. Until that time the City had a town marshal elected by the people or a "night watchman" who was appointed by the city council.
Town Marshals
  • Eldon Collins - 1958-1961 Peace Officer
  • Tom Holland - 1958
  • J.T. Dunn - 1958
  • O.P. Patterson - 1955
  • Mally Bransom - 1948
  • D.M. Hay - 1935 & 1938
  • Joe Sudberry - 1934
  • D.M. Hay - 1933 & 1935
  • J.O. Faires - 1931 & 1937
  • Clyde B. Higgins - 1930
  • J.W. Hurst - 1925-1929
  • J.O. Faires - 1922-1924
  • N.B. Hall - 1921
  • Joe Crawford - 1920
  • Tom Withers - 1917 & 1919
  • L.F. Jenkins - 1916 & 1918
  • J.T. Wood - 1914
  • S.A. Stout - 1913
  • G.E. Bean - 1912
Chiefs of Police
  • Billy Cordell - 2014 to present
  • Tom Cowan - 2001-2013
  • Harvey Hightower - 1993-2001
  • Roger Rountree - 1988-1993
  • Keith Rippy - 1985-1988
  • Don Maxon - 1983-1985
  • Homer Barns - 1966-1983
  • William Howe - 1964-1965
  • Bill Altizer - 1962-1963
  • Eldon Collins - 1960-1961