'This is not a job. This is a calling.': Oklahoma City names 51st police chief

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) - Ron Bacy has been chosen as Oklahoma City’s 51st police chief. 

"I'm beyond humbled and yet very proud,” said Chief Bacy. “We have probably the best city in the country. That's probably one of the best kept secrets, but it won't be a secret for very long." 

Bacy has served with the department since 1992. He rose through the ranks and was promoted to deputy chief in 2021. 

"This is not a job. This is a calling,” said Chief Bacy. 

The new chief beat out applicants from all over the country. 

He succeeds former Chief Wade Gourley, who announced his retirement earlier this year. 

OKC’s hiring consultant, Public Sector Search & Consulting, received 23 applications for the Chief position representing applicants from California, Colorado, Florida, Maryland, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Texas and Ontario, Canada,” according to the City of Oklahoma City’s press release. 

Chief Bacy will oversee nearly 1,800 employees, as well as the Police Department’s $286 million budget.

"He is very even keeled. His temperament is very calm, so it's easy to work through problems without emotions getting involved,” said OKC FOP President Mark Nelson. 

Chief Bacy said his top priority is building strong relationships with employees, stakeholders and the community. 

"You can't move forward if you don't have those established relationships,” said Chief Bacy. 

Fulfilling open positions is also top of mind. 

"That's a national crisis. Everyone's having trouble with recruitment,” said Chief Bacy.