Brownwood appoints new police chief

James Fuller is taking over as Chief of Police in Brownwood, effective immediately, on September 23.

Fuller began his law enforcement career with the Brownwood Police Department in December 2000 and has served as Assistant Chief, holding the position of Interim Chief on four occasions. He has led the department through multiple transitions and shared what serving the city means to him.

“I am honored and look forward to continuing to serve the City of Brownwood as the Chief of Police,” said Fuller. “I love Brownwood. This is my home, and I am committed to keeping this community safe for our families, visitors, and businesses.”

Fuller holds a Master Peace Officer Certification and has served in various roles, including patrol, criminal investigations, SWAT, and as a DARE officer in local schools. In 2006, he was awarded the Brownwood Police Department’s Medal of Valor — one of the highest honors for public safety officers who show exceptional courage in protecting human life. He has also served twice as President of the Brownwood Municipal Police Association.

He has overseen the department’s Communications, Patrol, Criminal Investigations, SWAT, and administrative divisions. At the state level, Fuller is an active member of the Texas Police Chiefs Association and has served as an Accreditation Assessor since 2018 and as a Team Leader since 2022, conducting more than 20 agency inspections across Texas.

Mayor Stephen E. Haynes praised Fuller’s appointment, citing his long-standing service, integrity, and the trust he’s built within the department and the community.

“James Fuller has repeatedly stepped into leadership during transitional times and has proven himself to be a steady, approachable, and trusted leader,” said Haynes. “His experience, dedication, and passion for serving Brownwood make him a great choice to lead our police department.”

Mayor Stephen E. Haynes said Fuller has proven his leadership time and again, making his appointment a clear and confident decision for the City.

“James Fuller has repeatedly stepped into leadership during transitional times and has proven himself to be a steady, approachable, and trusted leader,” said Haynes.

Haynes also highlighted Fuller’s deep experience, dedication, and connection to the community as key factors in the appointment.

“His experience, dedication, and passion for serving Brownwood make him a great choice to lead our police department,” Haynes said.

Before joining the Brownwood Police Department, Fuller served in the U.S. Army from 1990 to 1999 as a Military Police officer and Narcotics/Explosive Dog Handler. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration from the University of Phoenix and is a graduate of the Leadership Command College at Sam Houston State University’s Bill Blackwood Law Enforcement Management Institute of Texas.

A formal Chief’s Pinning Ceremony will be held at the Law Enforcement Center on October 2 at 4:00 p.m. The ceremony will include the formal pinning of the Chief’s badge, an oath of office, and recognition of Fuller’s service. The event is open to members of the public, city leadership, and law enforcement partners.

Chief Fuller will also be introduced to the community during National Night Out on Tuesday, October 7 — a nationwide event that brings police together with the community.