By Ruth Ann Ruiz
The Post Newspaper Features Editor
La Marque’s Mayor Keith Bell was not prepared to speak at the swearing in ceremony for La Marque’s new chief of police. He shared with the crowd gathered that he had planned to attend as a citizen of the town and enjoy the experience. But he was called up to introduce Byron Frankland and he welcomed the new chief who has served in law enforcement for 30 years.
“We are excited and delighted to be part of his legacy as a town,” said Mayor Bell. Then Frankland spoke a few words to the gathered audience.
Though he had not been officially sworn in, he has been serving as the chief for about a month. He said he has met with the officers individually and so far, he is confident in their skills and abilities to do the job.
“I’m really proud of the work they do here — they are out there working,” said Frankland. “They are very thorough.”
Next, city clerk Kierra Nance stepped up front and carried out the task of swearing in the new chief of police.
Frankland’s family was in attendance, and his son Hunter said it was good to see his father get back to his passion, which is law enforcement.
Frankland has over 30 years of police and emergency management, and city government experience. He has served as assistant chief of police for the Galveston Police Department, chief of police and assistant city manager for the city of Hutto, administrative sergeant for the city of Rockdale Police Department, and his most recent position was as emergency management coordinator for the city of Galveston.
He holds a Master Peace Officer license, an instructor certificate, and has completed more than 4,500 hours of TCOLE training. Chief Frankland is also set to graduate from Texas A&M University–Commerce this fall with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.
After his swearing in, the new chief was flanked by media including Lealer Simms with an on-camera interview for KGTX 7 news.
Residents had been invited to attend the ceremony and the meet and greet afterward, where a more relaxed feeling took over, as guests enjoyed some bites to eat and catching up with each other.
