Guthrie Chief Don Sweger honored as 2024 Small Agency Chief of the Year

In a significant recognition of exemplary leadership, the Oklahoma Association of Chiefs of Police (OACP) awarded Guthrie Chief Don Sweger with the 2024 Small Agency Chief of the Year at their annual banquet. This award is bestowed upon any Oklahoma Chief Law Enforcement Officer who has distinguished themselves commendably and serves a population of 15,000 or less.

Chief Sweger, who has been with the Guthrie Police Department for nearly a decade, is celebrated for his dedication to providing personal and professional service to his community, fostering a lasting and positive image of Oklahoma law enforcement.

“Throughout Chief Sweger’s tenure, he has consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of the complex issues facing law enforcement and has developed innovative strategies to address them,” stated OACP Executive Director Steve Whitlock. “His leadership has been marked by a strong sense of vision, a commitment to transparency, and a relentless pursuit of justice. I thank him for his dedication and commitment to professional law enforcement in Oklahoma.”

In addition to this honor, the Guthrie Police Department was recognized for completing their first Small Accreditation Assessment in 2023. Chief Sweger also served as the Outgoing President of the Association, further solidifying his influential role within the law enforcement community.

A small agency is defined as one that polices a community with fewer than 15,000 citizens. Oklahoma hosts approximately 459 local law enforcement agencies, with 381 of them serving populations under this threshold. Chiefs can be nominated for the award by community members, employees, or employers.

“This is a humbling and amazing honor that recognizes what your team at the Guthrie Police Department and City Hall does every day,” Chief Sweger remarked. “This amazing recognition could never have happened without the support, trust, and encouragement from citizens, management, and co-workers.”

Chief Sweger’s decade-long service in Guthrie has been characterized by his personal investment in the community and a professional approach that has earned him respect and admiration. His receipt of the Small Agency Chief of the Year award underscores his and his department’s commitment to excellence in law enforcement.