Durant City Council and administration announced last week that Jesse Petty was appointed as the new chief of the Durant Police Department.
Petty will assume his new duties on Nov. 22 and he is taking the reins from Joe Clark, who had been serving as interim chief.
“After an extensive search process, Mr. Jesse Petty stood out as a leader with a strong commitment to community engagement and public safety,” said City Manager Pam Polk. “I would like to extend my gratitude to the selection committee and community members who provided valuable input throughout this process. I am confident that under Mr. Petty’s leadership, our police department will continue to evolve and meet the needs of our diverse community.”
The city said Petty is a dedicated resident of Durant, committed to serving his community through a distinguished 24-year law enforcement career. He and his wife, Courtney, a native of Durant, are proud parents to their daughters, McKenzee and McKenlee, who attend local public schools.
As a third-generation law enforcement officer, Petty brings a legacy of service and professionalism. His credentials include an Advanced CLEET certification, various instructor certifications, and SWAT certification, along with extensive experience as a twotime K9 handler. Petty has also served as an OBN K9 evaluator and instructor and has taught law enforcement driver training. Petty attended Southeastern Oklahoma State University earning an associates degree in Criminal Justice.
He has held leadership roles, including serving as the FOP president and trustee, further showcasing his commitment to law enforcement and community service. Currently, Petty is the Chief of Police for the Choctaw Nation Lighthorse Police Department, a role he has excelled in for the past three years.
“Jesse Petty’s dedication and extensive experience position him to make a significant impact in Durant, and we are excited to welcome him into this vital role,” the city said in a news release.
