The Bogalusa Police Department (BPD) has a rich history tied closely to the growth and evolution of the City of Bogalusa itself. Founded in 1914, the same year the city was incorporated, BPD has played a critical role in maintaining law and order in the community. Bogalusa was initially a booming mill town, established by the Great Souther Lumber Company. With rapid growth and a rising population due to the lumber industry, the need for structured law enforcement became clear, leading to the formation of the police department
In the early years, the Bogalusa Police Department was relatively small, focused on maintaining peace in a bustling, industrial town. As the mill attracted more workers, law enforcement had to contend with the challenges of a rapidly expanding population and the often rough-and-tumble nature of a company town. Officers in this era were tasked with preventing crime, mediating disputes, and ensuring the safety of Bogalusa's citizens. BPD began to evolve, adopting new practices in line with modern law enforcement.
One of the most defining periods in the history of the Bogalusa Police Department occurred during the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. Bogalusa, like many Southern towns, experience intense racial tension during this time. The city became the site of protests and demonstrations aimed at dismantling segregation and securing civil rights for African Americans. BPD was often at the center of these conflicts, facing criticisms for its handling of civil rights activists.
During the summer of 1965, tensions boiled over with several key events. The formation of the Bogalusa Voters League and the Deacons for Defense and Justice, a local African American self-defense organization, brought national attention to Bogalusa. BPD's role during this time was fraught with controversy at it struggled to balance the maintenance of order with the demands of an evolving social landscape.
Following the tumultuous years of the 1960s, Bogalusa Police Department began to modernize and reform. Over the decades, the department invested in new technology, training programs, and strategies that improved its capacity to serve the community. Moving into the late 20th and earth 21st centuries, the department embraced community policing strategies. This approach emphasizes building relationships between officers and community members, with the goal of preventing crime through cooperation and communication.
In recent years, BPD has continued to adapt to new challenges, such as the rise of drug-related offenses, cybercrime, and ensuring public safety in a more interconnected world. The department has also worked to increase transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in the wake of broader societal shifts.
Today, Bogalusa Police Department remains committed to its mission of serving and protecting the citizens of Bogalusa. With a focus on community engagement, crime prevention and public safety, BPD strives to foster a sense of security and trust within the community. The department's leadership and officers work to ensure that Bogalusa remains a safe place for all residents, while honoring the department's long and complex history. From its early days as the law enforcement arm of a booming mill town to its role in the Civil Rights Movement and beyond, the Bogalusa Police Department continues to evolve, adapting to the needs of the city it serves.
This section is dedicated to the brave officers who served the Bogalusa Police Department. It's a tribute to their dedication, courage, and commitment to serving the Bogalusa community. It serves as a place of remembrance, gratitude, and reflection on the heroes who protected us. Their sacrifice and dedication to protecting our community will never be forgotten., and we are forever grateful. In memory of all Bogalusa officers who have died and left this world. May they all rest in peace.
Patrolman Robert May March 14, 1949
Killed in the line of duty
Assistant Police Chief Ernie Wells September 6, 2003
Denver "Dink" Penton September 28, 2002
Phillip Edward Hill April 14, 2002
Dorman Reed Pritchard January 26, 2001
A. J. McMillan June 24, 1994
John Hartzog December 2, 1995
E.R. Cassidy December 29, 1936
O. C. Strattman October 21, 1917
T. A. Magee December 21, 2001
W. E. Boyd
H. J. "Twister" Wascom October 26, 2000
Earl G. Penton 1991
Percy Knight November 26, 2001
Claxton Knight March 3, 1917
Donald G. Penton November 11, 1983
Huey R. "Tank" Cooper April 23, 2001
E. H. "Tec" Cooper, Jr. August 16, 2000
John Elmer Hill February 26, 1986