LUFKIN, Texas — Lufkin Police Chief David Thomas announced he is retiring after 36 years of service.

In a statement released Friday, Thomas announced he plans to retire on Jan. 31, 2026. Thomas was appointed assistant chief in 2014 and then chief of police in 2018.

In a letter to his fellow officers, Thomas said "The best time for a Chief to retire is when the department is thriving, and he can look around with pride at what the team has accomplished. I believe that time has come.”

He began his career with Lufkin PD in 1989 and has serviced numerous divisions, including numerous divisions including Patrol, Investigations, Community Policing, and Special Services. His leadership journey culminated in his appointment as Assistant Chief in 2014 and ultimately Chief of Police in 2018.

“The

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