New Burnet Police Chief sworn in
New Burnet Police Chief Tony Hefferin addresses the city and his officers at his swearing-in ceremony, speaking on his wish to further the good work done by the police department. Staff photo by Caden Senn.
The city of Burnet gathered for the swearing in of new Police Chief Tony Hefferin at City Hall on Friday, Jan. 16, drawing in friends, family, city council members, and even old coworkers to celebrate the occasion.
Hefferin, a U.S. Navy veteran and seasoned law enforcement agent, recently took the helm of the Burnet Police Department after the retirement of Chief Brian Lee on Dec. 31.
Lee served the department for four years before deciding it was time to lay down his badge and spend time with his family. Hefferin and Lee worked closely together in the two months leading up to the retirement to ensure a smooth transition for the department and city.
Chief Hefferin brings with him a career in law enforcement that began in 1998 after finishing five years of service in the U.S. Navy and then joining the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office, near Houston. There, he would spend the next six years working as a corrections officer and a patrol deputy before making a shift to Harris County and joining the Bellaire Police Department.
Throughout his 21-year tenure in Bellaire, Hefferin served as an officer, corporal, sergeant, lieutenant, and captain in various patrol and administrative settings.
Hefferin now hopes to use his rich experience to continue building the morale of BPD and support the work they do for the community.
“I’m just ready to be able to contribute to the great work that this department has already done,“ said Hefferin at the ceremony.
Chief Hefferin’s ceremony drew the support of several members of the community, including Mayor Gary Wideman and councilors Philip Thurman and Tommy Gaut, as well as a few of his old coworkers from the city of Bellaire who travelled to see the occasion.
To keep up with Chief Hefferin and the BPD’s work in the city, visit the department’s website and email any questions or concerns to police@cityofburnet.com.