La Grande Police Chief Gary Bell Officially Retires After 33 Years

Gary Bell officially retired as chief of the La Grande Police Department, completing his final day of service on Friday, Feb. 20 after 33 years with the department. Lieutenant Jason Hays formally took over the chief’s duties that day and is scheduled to take his oath of office at the March 4 La Grande City Council meeting.

Bell’s service with the department began as a reserve police officer in 1993 and he became a full-time officer in 1994. Over his career he served as a criminal detective, field training officer, drug task force supervisor, sergeant, lieutenant and regional SWAT team commander, and served as La Grande’s chief of police for the past six years.

City Manager John O’Brien announced on Jan. 29 that Lt. Jason Hays would be the next chief after what O’Brien described as a comprehensive recruitment and evaluation process. “Jason Hays has shown a strong dedication to public service, professional integrity, and thoughtful leadership,” O’Brien said. O’Brien added that the selection process included interviews, stakeholder input and consideration of both La Grande’s current and future public safety needs, and that “his selection reflects his demonstrated leadership, operational experience and commitment to serving the La Grande community.”

The department marked Bell’s retirement with a public social media tribute that thanked him and his family for decades of service. The La Grande Police Department post read in full, “Chief Bell, thank you for your devotion to this department and community. Thank you for your three decades of service, sacrifice, and leadership. From your police family - we honor you, we celebrate you, and we are deeply grateful for all you have given over the past 33 years. Congratulations on your retirement - your legacy will continue to inspire us for years to come.” The department also honored Bell’s wife, Maryaan, writing, “Her unwavering support through the long nights, challenging moments, and many milestones made this journey possible. This next chapter is one they have truly earned together.”

Bell’s City of La Grande biography underscores his local roots and training: he was raised in La Grande, graduated from La Grande High School, attended Blue Mountain Community College and earned a degree in Criminal Justice Administration from Eastern Oregon University. On the department’s Chief’s Message page Bell wrote, “Whether you're a La Grande resident or a visitor to our beautiful city, we thank you for allowing us to serve you as you enjoy all that our community has to offer.” The message also states, “We hold ourselves to very high standards and take pride in maintaining excellent training, professional development, and competency. We collaborate closely with many community partners and share our critical law enforcement mission with the Union County Sheriff's Office and the Oregon State Police. Additionally, we are proud to provide law enforcement services to Eastern Oregon University.”

Union County 911 dispatch center personnel read a special message on-air the day of Bell’s retirement; a recording of that message is available to listen to. For department contact the City of La Grande lists its offices at 1000 Adams Avenue and P. O. Box 670. With Hays now serving as chief effective Feb. 20 and his oath scheduled for March 4, the La Grande Police Department will move forward under new leadership while maintaining established partnerships with the Union County Sheriff’s Office, the Oregon State Police and Eastern Oregon University.