Burnet gets a new lawman
Tony Hefferin is the new police chief for the city of Burnet. Photo courtesy of Burnet
After months of searching, Burnet has hired a new police chief.
The city announced on Thursday, Nov. 6 that Tony Hefferin, a U.S. Navy veteran with 26 years of experience in law enforcement, would be taking over the Burnet Police Department on Jan. 1, 2026. He is replacing outgoing Police Chief Brian Lee, who announced his impending retirement in May.
“Chief Hefferin brings the experience, professionalism, and heart for service that reflects Burnet’s values,” City Manager David Vaughn wrote in a media release following Hefferin’s hiring. “He joins an outstanding department shaped by Chief Brian Lee’s leadership, and Tony’s leadership approach–rooted in integrity, accountability, and people– will continue to advance excellence in service and community partnership.”
The city had been on the hunt for a new chief since May, with Lee helping in the search to find his replacement after serving for about four and half years.
Hefferin will officially begin work in December and take up the reins as chief in January.
The new chief served in the U.S. Navy 1993-1998, and worked with the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office 1998-2004. He spent over 20 years with the Bellaire Police Department, near Houston, rising through the ranks from a patrol officer to a multi-divisional commander.