Tulsa Police Chief Dennis Larsen To Retire After More Than 47 Years Of Service

Tulsa Police Chief Dennis Larsen To Retire After More Than 47 Years Of Service

Tulsa Police Chief Dennis Larsen will retire September 30, ending a law enforcement career that has spanned more than 47 years with the Tulsa Police Department.

Larsen's retirement marks the end of one of the longest-serving careers in the department's history and begins the search for Tulsa's 42nd police chief. City leaders credit Larsen with helping reduce crime during his tenure while earning national recognition for his work in law enforcement.

Tulsa Police Chief Dennis Larsen Built A Nearly Five-Decade Career

Larsen joined the Tulsa Police Department more than 47 years ago and steadily rose through the ranks, serving as captain from 1997 to 2006, major from 2005 to 2007 and deputy chief over the Operations Bureau beginning in 2007. Before becoming chief in May 2024, he led the department's Investigations Bureau.

According to the City of Tulsa, Larsen also graduated from the FBI National Academy and the FBI National Executive Institute. During his career, the U.S. Department of Justice recognized him as the third longest-serving bomb technician in the United States.

He has received numerous honors from the department, including the Life Saving Award, three Chief's Awards and four Departmental Commendations.

Crime Fell During Larsen's Time As Chief

During Larsen's tenure as police chief, the Tulsa Police Department's homicide unit achieved a 100% solve rate while overall crime declined across the city, according to the City of Tulsa.

Mayor Monroe Nichols thanked Larsen for nearly five decades of public service, saying his leadership and commitment to both the community and the men and women of the department will be remembered for years to come.

Other law enforcement leaders also praised Larsen's career, including U.S. Senator James Lankford, FBI Oklahoma City Special Agent in Charge Doug Goodwater, U.S. Secret Service Resident Agent in Charge Douglas Farrell, Tulsa County District Attorney Steve Kunzweiler, Tulsa City Council Chair Karen Gilbert and Public Safety Commissioner Laurel Roberts, all recognizing his leadership, professionalism and lasting impact on public safety.

Search Begins For Tulsa's Next Police Chief

With Larsen's retirement effective September 30, city officials will begin searching for Tulsa's 42nd police chief.

The City of Tulsa said the hiring process will follow its standard civil service procedures, with additional details about the recruitment expected in the coming weeks.

Although Larsen served as chief for just over two years, his influence on the department stretches across nearly five decades. From leading the bomb squad to overseeing operations and investigations before becoming chief, Larsen leaves behind a legacy of public service that few officers ever achieve.

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