Harkins is new Vian police chief

Mark Harkins was sworn in as Vian’s new police chief during the regular monthly meeting of the Vian Board of Trustees on May 15.

The board voted to appoint Harkins to the position following the resignation of former police chief Daniel New.

The board also received resignations from officers Amy Guzman and Shawn Booth, and Officer Amber Rigsby went from full-time to reserve status, according to Vian Town Administrator Keith Boshers.

“Anytime we get a new police chief, they must be sworn in,” Boshers said. Judge Cripps was on hand to swear in the chief, as well as other officers.

Harkins said he took over duties on May 10 and had the privilege of being present for the 2023 Vian Wolverine graduation. “Every parent, grandparent and person in attendance clapped and yelled for every student like they were their own. I saw a salutatorian make her father cry, a valedictorian make everyone cry, music that was angelic, and a school staff that was as proud as the parents themselves of the graduates,” Harkins said.

“I saw a community as close as any can be. I was honored to get to be a part of it and I hope it’s the first of many I am able to attend. I understood just what that purple and gold patch I wear on my uniform means to so many people. I am also honored to be able to wear it and represent it.”

Harkins said he is also looking forward to moving into the police department’s new location, which will be moving with town offices to the old Miss Lilly’s restaurant building.

“We will be moving into our brand new, updated police department within the next few weeks,” Harkins said. “We have new units being shipped and outfitted. I want to build a team that is willing to be a part of a great community and be there for the long-term plans.”

Boshers said the trustees approved the purchase of a 2015 Ford Taurus Interceptor from Big Bear Police Vehicles, LLC and a 2023 Chevrolet 1500 crew cab from Cooper Fleet Services, which will both go to the police department.

He said they hope to be able to move to the new location as soon as possible, and are finishing up last minute details now, including the moving of services.

“We do plan on having our next court date there,” Boshers said. “We’re looking forward to being in the new building.”

Harkins said they will be looking for new police officers as well.

“The opportunity to get in on the ground floor of something great is now. If you are looking for a career in law enforcement or are currently certified in Oklahoma or Arkansas, and are interested in joining a great team reach out to me and let’s visit,” he said.

Harkins has created a new Vian Police Department Facebook page, too, to serve as a link between the community and department.

“This will help keep others informed and in touch with the daily operations of the community. The site will be used to inform of things like special events, weather alerts, and public safety announcements,” he said.

“I look forward to operating a transparent department dedicated to serving and protecting the community, and those who come to visit our great town that is rich in history and filled with some of the greatest people you will ever meet,” he said.

Regarding other agenda items, the trustees also approved their 2023-24 Fiscal Year budget for the town and public works authority during the meeting.