Burnet police chief retiring in December
Burnet Police Chief Brian Lee is retiring after more than four years with the Burnet Police Department and a 32-year career in law enforcement. Courtesy photo
Burnet Police Chief Brian Lee is retiring in December, the city announced May 30. Lee has been with the Burnet Police Department for more than four years and in law enforcement for 32 years. A nationwide search for a new chief will begin in June.
“The city of Burnet thanks Chief Lee for his exceptional service and leadership,” reads City Manager David Vaughn’s Weekly Report on Friday. “His legacy will be felt in the department and community for years to come.”
Lee was hired as BPD chief in March 2021 and began the job that May, coming from the Boise Police Department in Idaho, where he served in multiple leadership roles. He will stay on through December 2025 to help transition his replacement into the position.
While serving as police chief of the Bluebonnet Capital of Texas, Lee:
- created a culture of accountability and strengthened ties with the community through events
- and partnerships;
- increased patrol staffing, enhancing officer presence and responsiveness, and maintained full staffing;
- expanded the K-9 unit and upgraded the department’s Unmanned Aeriel Vehicle capabilities to improve public safety during events such as the Bluebonnet Festival;
- developed a cutting-edge cell phone forensic capability that supports multiple regional agencies in solving serious crimes;
- modernized the department’s training range, transforming it into a state-of-the-art facility now used by multiple area law enforcement agencies;
- acquired advanced tools such as the TruNarc system, enhancing officer safety during narcotics investigations;
- used the department’s fleet as a tool for awareness, incorporating vehicle designs that honor military service and raise awareness for causes such as breast cancer, domestic violence, and child abuse. An autism awareness vehicle will be unveiled in the fall.
During his long career, he also had his 15 minutes of national fame, appearing on the reality TV series “COPS” and the true crime news program “Dateline” for his involvement in solving a 27-year-old murder case. Outside of law enforcement, Lee was in the U.S. Air Force and served during Gulf War operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm.
“Law enforcement is a noble career, and people are truly called to this role,” Lee said in his retirement announcement. “It has been an honor to serve as the chief in Burnet. I appreciate the unwavering support from current and past (City Council) members, the city manager, our officers, and the community. I’ve been blessed to land in Burnet with this opportunity—what an incredible journey it has been. After all the years, assignments, and situations I’ve faced, it just feels like the right time to retire and spend more time with my wife.”
After retirement, Lee plans to remain in Burnet and focus on his work with local nonprofits, sharpen his pickleball skills, and make time for golf.