In an effort to strengthen the bond between the Okmulgee Police Department and the community it serves, the Okmulgee Times is proud to launch a new series titled “Meet Your Officers.”

This initiative aims to introduce residents to the dedicated individuals behind the badges, showcasing their personal stories, professional journeys, and commitments to our community.

— The Purpose

Building trust and fostering open communication between law enforcement and community members is essential for creating a safe and cohesive environment. By sharing the personal narratives of our officers, we hope to humanize those who serve and protect us, highlighting the diverse backgrounds and experiences that contribute to their roles.

— What to Expect

Each article in this series will feature an in-depth interview with a different member of the Okmulgee Police Department. Readers will gain insight into the officers’ day-to-day duties, motivations for joining the force, and personal interests outside of work. Additionally, the series will highlight the officers’ involvement in community initiatives and their efforts to make Okmulgee a better place for all.

— Your Feedback Matters

We encourage community members to engage with the series by sharing their thoughts and questions. Your feedback is invaluable as we strive to create meaningful connections and understanding between the police force and the public.

— Kicking Off the Series: Meet Captain Joe Landers To kick off this series, our first feature is on Captain Joe Landers, a dedicated and experienced officer who has served the Okmulgee community for 25 years. In this inaugural article, we discuss with Captain Landers’ his career, his passion for law enforcement, and his vision for a safer, more united Okmulgee.

— From Dispatch to Captain: The Journey of Joe Landers Carrying 25 years of service in the Okmulgee Police Department, 45-year-old Captain Joe Landers exemplifies experience and commitment. With a warm smile and a no-nonsense attitude, Captain Landers sat down to share his journey in law enforcement.

“I started dispatching when I was 18,” he begins, reflecting on the early days of his career. Born and raised in Okemah, Joe Landers initially had different aspirations. “My intention was to join the Tulsa Fire Department. I got my basic EMT training and was a volunteer firefighter for eight or nine years.”

However, fate had other plans. The camaraderie and excitement of law enforcement lured him in.

“I was actually planning to be a firefighter, but the local police department reached out to me, and I decided to give it a shot.” At just 21, Joe transitioned from dispatcher to police officer in Okemah. “I enjoyed the variety and unpredictability of the job. Every day is different, and that keeps things interesting.”

Joe’s journey wasn’t without its challenges.

“It got to the point where I was arresting classmates and friends,” he recalls with a chuckle, emphasizing the small-town dynamic of Okemah. Seeking new opportunities, he joined the Okmulgee Police Department in 2000. “I’ve been here ever since, moving up the ranks to captain recently.”

Captain Landers’ passion for firearms and community service is evident. As a firearms instructor, he combines his love for teaching with his dedication to law enforcement. “I like working with the guys on shift, training them. Investigations just never caught my eye.”

When he’s not in uniform, Joe finds solace in the great outdoors. “I’m a big-time fisherman. When I’m not at work, you’ll find me spending time with my kids and fishing. I also enjoy hunting and have participated in tournament fishing since I was 15.”

Reflecting on his career, Joe highlights two milestones.

“Graduating from the police academy was a significant achievement. I wasn’t a standout student in school, so it felt great to accomplish that. Getting promoted to captain after all these years of hard work is also a highlight.”

Living and working in Okmulgee, Captain Landers sees immense potential for the community. “Okmulgee has a lot of potential, and with the right dedication, we can achieve a lot. Increased patrols and community engagement can make a big difference.”

Despite the challenges of staffing shortages, Joe remains optimistic. “We’re working hard to recruit and retain new officers. It’s been tough, but we’re making progress. I hope to retire from here and see Okmulgee flourish.”

Captain Landers lives by simple but powerful advice: “Make smart decisions that you can live with.” It’s a philosophy that has guided him throughout his career.

Join us on this journey as we bridge the gap between law enforcement and the community, one story at a time. Together, we can build a stronger, more connected Okmulgee.

Stay tuned for our next installment of “Meet Your Officers” and get to know the faces behind the uniforms.