New Beginnings in Bryan: Chief Dean Swartzlander Takes the Helm
BRYAN, Texas — There’s a fresh breeze blowing through the Bryan Police Department with the arrival of Chief Dean Swartzlander, who has recently stepped into the role of Police Chief. Having dedicated nearly three decades to law enforcement right here in Bryan, Chief Swartzlander brings a wealth of experience and a heartfelt commitment to improving community ties, especially with the youth.
A Journey Through the Ranks
Starting off as a patrolman way back in 1997, Swartzlander’s career has been nothing short of impressive. He climbed the ranks, moving from patrol sergeant to training coordinator, and then to lieutenant, finally becoming assistant chief before his recent promotion to chief. “It has been quite the journey,” he reflected, showing pride in his long-standing service to the department.
Swartzlander’s extensive experience is not just about taking on different titles; he has notably dedicated a significant portion of his career to nurturing the next generation of officers. Being the mastermind behind the department’s own police academy, he believes that local training is essential. “If you go through a regional police academy, the training is good, but it doesn’t necessarily teach your department’s values, your mission, and how everything fits with how the Bryan Police Department operates,” he said.
A Family Atmosphere
It’s no surprise that when new officers are hired, a common question arises: “Why the Bryan Police Department?” Chief Swartzlander explains that many candidates respond with, “Because the Bryan Police Department felt like family.” He emphasizes the department’s nurturing environment and camaraderie, a vital aspect that attracts talent amidst competition with other law enforcement agencies.
Building Bonds with the Community
As the new police chief, Swartzlander’s focus is clear: enhancing community engagement. He is particularly keen on connecting with young people. “We’ve had a lot of violent crime involving juveniles, and we need to find effective ways to reach out to them,” he explained. His motivation is to show youth that there are positive alternatives and pathways to success, steering them clear of trouble.
Plans for Interactive Engagement
Get ready, Bryan! Chief Swartzlander has plans to roll out various interactive events designed to strengthen the bond between officers and members of the community. “We want to show the youth that we are approachable and present, so they see police officers as allies rather than just authority figures,” he added enthusiastically.
These events aim to create scenarios where officers can engage with young people in a friendly and casual environment. Whether through sports, community projects, or local events, the chief’s vision is to foster connections where dialogue can flourish, and misconceptions can be cleared up.
The Road Ahead
With Chief Swartzlander at the helm, the future appears bright for the Bryan Police Department and the broader community. His commitment to creating a supportive space for both officers and citizens sends a powerful message: that safety and community are intertwined and that together, they can pave the way for a brighter tomorrow.
So, keep an eye out for new happenings and initiatives around town. With a leader like Chief Swartzlander, community engagement is set to thrive, making Bryan an even better place for everyone!
