Bacel Cantrell sworn in as new Breckenridge Police Chief
Lt. Bacel Cantrell became Breckenridge Police Chief Bacel Cantrell shortly after 4 p.m. today, Friday, Jan. 31, when he was sworn in to the new position by County Judge Michael Roach in the District Court Room of the Stephens County Courthouse.
Outgoing Police Chief Larry Mahan congratulates the newly sworn in Police Chief Bacel Cantrell and hands over the Police Chief badge on Friday afternoon. (Photo by Tony Pilkington/Breckenridge Texan)
Today was Larry Mahan’s final day as police chief, after 21 years on the job, and he was there in the courtroom to wish Cantrell good luck in his new position.
“I’m not going to say anything bad or tell any stories, because this is my choice,” Mahan said before the swearing in ceremony. “This is the one, I went to the (City) Commission, and I told them, ‘This is my man.’ He’s young; he’ll stay longer than I did.”
Mahan went on to say that for most of his 21 years as police chief, the job was enjoyable and that he’s tried to forget the parts that weren’t. “And that’s what I told him. Enjoy it, but forget the bad stuff,” Mahan said.
Also speaking at the ceremony were former Stephens County Sheriff Jim Reeves, Breckenridge Mayor and retired Texas State Trooper Bob Sims and Breckenridge City Manager Andy McCuistion.
“I’m just tickled pink that he’s going to be the police chief of the community,” Sims said. “This is a great day for Breckenridge and Stephens County…just mark it on your calendar. This guy will do great.”
After the comments, Roach conducted the swearing in ceremony for Cantrell, who was surrounded by his wife, Eva, their children and other family members.
Immediately following the ceremony, Cantrell addressed the crowd gathered in the courtroom. “Thank everyone for coming out and supporting me for years,” he said. “When I started this journey of being a police officer and got on that path, I’ve done a lot of praying, and I’m glad God put me here to finish out what I started. I’m very thankful for that and everything he’s given me.”
Story by Carla McKeown/Breckenridge Texan
Cutline, top photo: Bacel Cantrell is sworn in as the new Breckenridge Police Chief by Stephens County Judge Michael Roach on Friday afternoon in the District Court Room. He was surrounded by his wife, Eva, their children and other family members. (Photo by Tony Pilkington/Breckenridge Texan)
