The Okmulgee Police Department stands as a cornerstone of public safety, professionalism and community partnership within the City of Okmulgee.
Under the leadership of Chief Danny Owen, who brings 31 years of law enforcement service to the department, OPD continues its mission of protecting residents while adapting to the evolving needs of the community it serves. The department is responsible for providing all law enforcement services within the city limits of Okmulgee, responding daily to emergencies, calls for assistance and proactive policing efforts designed to keep the city safe.
— Leadership & Experience
Chief Owen oversees a department of 23 total personnel, a team that combines decades of experience with a growing number of newly trained officers. Supporting the chief is a seasoned command staff that includes Captains Joe Landers (22 years) and Jerome Gresham (23 years), along with a team of lieutenants, sergeants, patrol officers and records personnel who collectively represent more than two centuries of law enforcement experience.
The department’s leadership structure allows for effective supervision, training, and accountability while ensuring officers in the field have the support they need to serve the public effectively.
— OPD rebuilding staffing, strengthening operations One of OPD’s primary accomplishments in 2025 was rebuilding officer staffing levels. After working diligently to recruit, train, and retain personnel, the department welcomed several new officers who successfully completed police academy instruction and field training. These officers are now fully deployed, helping to strengthen patrol coverage and response times throughout the city.
In addition to personnel growth, OPD continued to pursue and secure grant funding aimed at improving operational efficiency and officer safety. Through these efforts, the department upgraded key technologies, including mobile laptops, electronic citation systems, body-worn cameras, patrol workstation computers and digital field cameras. These upgrades enhance transparency, accuracy in reporting and overall effectiveness during daily operations.
— Community Partnerships & Outreach
The Okmulgee Police Department remains deeply committed to collaboration – both within law enforcement and across the broader community. A key partnership continues with Okmulgee Safe Harbor, where OPD works closely to investigate domestic violence and child abuse cases. This collaboration has helped officers prepare stronger cases for prosecution, ensuring victims receive appropriate support while offenders are held accountable.
Beyond enforcement duties, OPD officers are a familiar presence at community events throughout the year. In 2025, the department participated in numerous local celebrations and activities, including including the Juneteenth Celebration, the 4th of July Fireworks Extravaganza, the Muscogee Nation Festival, the Roy LeBlanc Okmulgee Invitational Rodeo, the Harlan Ford Car Show, Scare on the Square, Eastside and Westside Prayer Walks, the Harlan Ford Toy Drive and Okmulgee’s annual Festival of Lights Christmas Parade. These events provide valuable opportunities for officers to build trust, engage with residents and reinforce the department’s community-oriented approach.
— A Year By the Numbers
Throughout 2025, OPD responded to approximately 10,423 service calls, reflecting the department’s constant presence and responsibility in addressing everything from routine assistance to critical emergencies. Each call represents a moment where officers were called upon to serve, protect and assist members of the Okmulgee community.
— Looking Ahead
As the department moves into 2026, OPD leadership expressed gratitude for the continued support of the community and reaffirmed its commitment to service. “We greatly appreciate the support we receive from our community,” the department noted. “We are proud to serve this City and look forward to a great 2026.”
Through experienced leadership, continued investment in technology, strong community partnerships, and a growing team of dedicated officers, the Okmulgee Police Department remains steadfast in its mission to protect and serve – earning its place among the hometown heroes recognized across Okmulgee County.
