OKLAHOMA CITY Ron C. Bacy has been selected as Oklahoma City’s 51st police chief, effective immediately.
Bacy, who has served the Oklahoma City Police Department (OKCPD) for 32 years, succeeds Wade Gourley, who recently retired after 35 years of service, including five years as chief.
“Oklahoma City has some of the best police officers in the nation,” Chief Bacy said. “I’m humbled to serve as chief, and I look forward to building relationships in our community and finding innovative ways to address areas of mutual concern. I’m dedicated to continuing Chief Gourley’s work to expand resources for residents experiencing a mental health crisis, to leverage technology to enhance police services and continue to foster wellness initiatives for employees.”
City Manager Craig Freeman announced Bacy’s appointment.
“Chief Bacy is a strategic planner, collaborative problem solver and proven leader,” Freeman said. “He cares deeply about our community and is committed to implementing the recommendations of the Public Safety Partnership by continuing to modernize the Police Department in areas like de-escalation, use of force and crisis intervention. He is passionate about serving all residents.”
Bacy will oversee the department’s $286 million budget, 1,235 uniformed officers and 558 professional staff.
Bacy, 54, began his career as a patrol officer in 1992 and has held various roles, including field training officer supervisor, captain and deputy chief. He has also contributed to the Oklahoma City Law Enforcement Policy Task Force and Community Policing Working Group.
Bacy is committed to continuing efforts to improve police services, particularly in areas like mental health crisis intervention and technology enhancement. His leadership is expected to build on the department’s strong community relations and public safety initiatives.
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