BEATRICE – After more than three decades of leadership in law enforcement, a southeast Nebraska Police Chief is putting away the badge.
Friday was the last day on the job for Beatrice Police Chief Bruce Lang. A retirement reception was held at police headquarters, where Mayor Stan Wirth honored Lang for his dedication to the community.


"You've served people in this community for over 30 years now...and now the community has the ability to serve and protect you. I've got a plaque here for you and its presented to Chief Bruce E. Lang, June 3rd, 2022....and it says thank you for 46 years in law enforcement and 36 years of immeasurable contributions and dedication to law enforcement services to the citizens of Beatrice. Your professionalism, leadership and integrity, will be missed."


Lang, his wife Dawn and family members met with co-workers and well-wishers as the Chief ends a 46-year career in law enforcement…. which included a stint as an Air Force police officer and as a Lieutenant with La Vista Police.


"When I came here at 36 years old as the youngest police chief in a first-class city in Nebraska....and I leave it as the oldest police chief in a first-class city...along the way it's been really good. I've had the opportunity to do things a lot of police chiefs wouldn't do and we've been able to accomplish things, through no small part by many of you in this room. Maybe we tried to do it just a little bit different than other places did and we think that served our citizens....so, I appreciate those kind words."


Lang was appointed Beatrice Police Chief by former Mayor Dave Maurstad. Taking over the reins of the department now is John Hickman, who comes to Beatrice from Montana, where he was Chief of the Glendive Police Department.