Chief of Police

Chief Barnett has more than 32 years of public service. Beginning at the age of 18, Chief Barnett became a firefighter and Emergency Medical Technician working for the local fire and ambulance services. He continued his fire and EMS training and became both a state certified firefighter and a Paramedic while pursuing his college degree and attending the police academy. At age 20, he achieved his childhood dream of becoming a police officer. He has continued in these professions throughout his public service career. He holds a Master Peace Officer certification from the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement, as well as numerous advanced level licenses and certifications. He is a graduate of both the FBI National Academy (199th) and the Texas Leadership Command College (42nd).   

Dr. Barnett holds a Doctor of Business Administration degree in Criminal Justice from Northcentral University, as well as Master of Science and Bachelor of Science degrees from LeTourneau University. He has served as the Chief of Police at the Kyle Police Department since 2011, where he has implemented numerous community policing efforts, such as the Citizen’s Police Academy, Community Policing Officers, the Mental Health Officer, Juvenile Services Officer, Citizens on Patrol and the Victim Services Unit; all in an effort to greatly improve services and communication with the community.   

The City of Kyle, with a population of approximately 60,000 residents, is situated approximately 15 minutes south of downtown Austin, Tx along IH-35 fully within Hays County. The city and the area are identified as one of the fasted growing regions in the United States with an expected city population reaching 200,000 by 2035. The Kyle Police Department, with a staff of 121, serves the growing community and the 130,000 daily commuters and visitors.