In the latest installment of our Meet Your Officers series, we are introduced to Officer Cody Harris, a dedicated patrolman with the Okmulgee Police Department who has been serving our community since February 2024. His journey into law enforcement has deep roots, inspired by a family legacy of public service and a desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

— A Legacy of Law Enforcement

Officer Cody Harris was practically destined for a career in law enforcement. A type of ‘legacy kid’ as his great uncle served as a detective with the Sapulpa Police Department, and his cousin was both a police officer and the Chief Deputy at the Creek County Sheriff ’s Office. Perhaps most influential was his father, who retired after 30 years as Assistant Chief of the Glenpool Police Department. “Watching my dad interact with the community and learning from him inspired me to follow in his footsteps,” Officer Harris explained. “I would go on ride-alongs with him, and we had a lot of bonding time.”

One of his most vivid memories was assisting his father, who served as a School Resource Officer (SRO) and a K-9 handler. Together, they trained his father’s long-haired Belgian Malinois, a passive detection dog that left a lasting impression on young Cody. “It opened my eyes to a whole new world,” he recalled.

— From Firefighter to Police Officer

Officer Harris’s path to becoming a police officer wasn’t a straight line. Before joining the Okmulgee Police Department, he spent 13 years in the fire service. Starting as a volunteer with the Liberty Fire Department, he went on to serve in various fire departments, accumulating experience and a deep appreciation for service. Currently, he still serves as a volunteer firefighter with the Kiefer Fire Department.

His journey into law enforcement began in 2020 as a reserve officer with the Okmulgee County Sheriff ’s Department. From there, he moved to the Kiefer Police Department, where he completed the police academy and served full-time until a life-changing call made him reconsider his career. “I’d seen some bad things over the years,” he said. “I took a break and tried working for a tow truck company, but it wasn’t for me. I realized I wasn’t helping people in the same way.”

Determined to continue making a difference, Officer Harris joined the Okmulgee Police Department in February 2024, where he found his calling once again.

— The Thrill and Challenge of Patrol

Serving as a patrolman in Okmulgee has provided Officer Harris with a wealth of experience. “Every day is a learning opportunity,” he shared. “I’ve experienced and learned so much in the seven months I’ve been here, and it’s something new every day.” He enjoys working with his fellow officers and appreciates the camaraderie. “I went from working alone at Kiefer to having a team and backup. It’s a completely different world, and I love it.”

Despite the challenges, Officer Harris takes pride in his work, even volunteering to work 11 days straight when needed. Recently, he was appointed as a training officer for new recruits, a responsibility he takes seriously, stating, “It’s a big responsibility, but I have fun doing it.”

— A Heart for the Community’s Youth

When asked about his most impactful moments, Officer Harris’s passion for working with the younger generation shines through. “I like talking to kids, even if they’re not in trouble,” he said. “Kids have a soft spot in my heart. There’s so much negativity around them today, and I want to be a positive influence.”

Officer Harris emphasized the importance of reaching out to young people, especially those who might be on the wrong path. “Some of them are going down a road they shouldn’t be. I try to get through to them, help them understand that there’s a better way. You can’t reach every kid, but making a difference with even one is worth it.”

— A Glimpse into His Personal Life

Outside of his police duties, Officer Cody Harris is a family man. He’s been married to his wife for 12 years, and together they have three children – two girls and a boy. Living on a five-acre property, the Harris family enjoys spending time outdoors, raising chickens and turkeys, and making the most of their little “piece of heaven.”

Hunting is a cherished pastime that Officer Harris shares with his son, passing down the skills and traditions taught to him by his own father. “We try to do stuff outside and outdoors,” he mentioned. “It’s our happy place.”

— Advice for the Youth

When asked if he had a message for young people, Officer Harris was candid: “There are people out there who want to help you, but you have to ask for help. There’s so much access to negative influences these days – video games, cell phones – but there’s more to life. Parents need to be parents, and kids need to be kids. It’s important to find that balance.”

— Final Thoughts

Officer Cody Harris embodies the spirit of service and dedication, both in his professional life and at home with his family. His journey from growing up around law enforcement to becoming a trusted officer in our community is his personal decision to commit to helping others. Whether patrolling the streets of Okmulgee, training the next generation of officers, or spending time with his family, Officer Harris is making a positive impact every step of the way.