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.
-When I sat down with Sergeant William R. Scott for our interview, it was clear from the start that he’s a man of few words. Reserved and thoughtful, he doesn’t speak much about himself, whether it’s the nature of his job or simply his personality – likely a bit of both – Sergeant Scott’s calm demeanor masks a deep passion for the people of Okmulgee, especially its youth.
Born and raised in eastern New Mexico, Sergeant Scott made the move to Oklahoma in 2008, and, at just 22 years old, joined the Okmulgee Police Department in April 2012. Hard work quickly earned him opportunities to expand his skills and experience.
From late 2014 to 2017, Sergeant Scott served as an investigator, diving into the complexities of criminal investigations before returning to patrol work, where his heart has always been. His promotion to Sergeant in early 2024 marked a significant milestone in his career, one that he looks forward to building upon as he continues to grow within the department.
But what led Sergeant Scott to choose a life in law enforcement? It all goes back to his childhood and the influence of a mentor, Gilbert Salguero, the Police Chief in the town where Scott grew up.
“I joined Law Enforcement because I had a desire to serve the people. I also wanted to be the Mentor that I had growing up. Gilbert Salguero, was the Police Chief in the town I grew up in and the way he interacted with the community and how he treated each individual was inspiring to me,” Scott recalls. This early inspiration fueled his desire to serve and be the kind of mentor that shaped his own life.
In his current role, Sergeant Scott finds himself wearing many hats due to the department’s staffing needs. Though he hasn’t yet had the chance to fully embrace his new responsibilities as Sergeant, he remains eager and ready to step into the role more completely.
“Our current days are filled with calls to serve the citizens in every capacity we can to make our community safer and better for all that live in it,” he shares, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the people of Okmulgee.
When asked about his most memorable experiences in law enforcement, one of the moments that stand out the most for Sergeant Scott isn’t what you might expect.
It’s not about an arrest or a big case, but about playing dodgeball with kids at Brock gym.
“Connecting with those kids on their level, building them up, and maybe teaching them a little something along the way – that’s what I remember most,” he shares. For Scott, these small moments of connection are what make his job truly rewarding.
Outside of his duties as an officer, Sergeant Scott is a devoted Christian, husband, and father of five. His family is at the center of his life.
“I enjoy spending time on the lake with my family, taking the boat out and having a great time and enjoying ourselves, building those family memories. I love Rodeos, every aspect of it. I think rodeos bring back a lot of lost culture, faith and a love for something bigger than we are. I also love to hunt and fish, and just being outdoors.”
Though he’s not currently involved in many community projects, his passion for mentoring is evident. Sergeant Scott remains active in his church, Calvary Baptist, and has previously served as a pack leader for Cub Scouts in Morris.
“I am really big on mentoring to the youth. When we are gone, our youth will be in our shoes, he emphasizes, “I feel like we have a lot to teach the kids around us to prepare them to do better than we have. To leave them with understanding and knowledge to go out and make a difference everywhere they go. I try to be the best version of myself everyday to help impact these young men and women in a positive way.”
Sergeant Scott believes in always striving to be better and helping others do the same. “We should all try to be a better version of ourselves today than we were yesterday and keep that motto everyday” he advises. “Lift others up and come together as a community instead of tearing each other down and causing division between each other.”
Sergeant William R. Scott is more than just a police officer – he’s a member of the Okmulgee county community working every day to make it a better place for everyone.
