Brookhaven’s Interim Chief of Police Randy Belcher Sworn In

Brookhaven, MS (BuzzReport) – Randy Belcher was sworn in as Brookhaven’s Interim Chief of Police on Monday, June 30, by Municipal Judge Louwlynn Vanzetta “Van” Williams. The Board of Aldermen approved Belcher’s appointment on May 20, following a proposal by then-Mayor Joe Cox to appoint an acting or interim chief to take office immediately after the end of former Chief Kenneth Collins’ term. Collins retired after eight years, effective midnight June 30.

Ward 1 Alderman James Magee Jr. proposed the position to Belcher, who served as a Lincoln County Sheriff’s deputy for 15 years before being sworn in as Ward 1 Alderman in 2013. Belcher defeated then-alderman Dorsey Cameron but served only one term, with Cameron regaining the position. In 2021, Belcher ran for the office of police chief against Collins, garnering 43.6% of the vote compared to Collins’ 56%.

Magee’s motion specified that Belcher’s contract would be for a period of 60 days, with the new Board having the option of extending it for 30 days, no more than twice. His pay would be equivalent to the monthly salary for the chief, without any fringe benefits. As Acting Interim Chief of Police, Belcher will have the administrative, management, and oversight authorities of the existing office of Chief of Police, with the exception that any expenditure over $1,000 will require the approval of the Mayor and/or City Clerk. All personnel decisions will remain with the Board of Aldermen, as currently provided by law.

The Board voted unanimously in favor of the motion. In his proposal, Mayor Cox emphasized that a city cannot bind a new Board but failing to provide an Acting Chief of Police to administer day-to-day duties until a newly sworn-in Board considers action and a permanent chief is appointed would be a dereliction of duty.

Randy Belcher officially stepped into his new role just after midnight on July 1.