Lafayette, LA (February 13, 2025) – After an extensive search, Lafayette Mayor-President Monique B. Boulet named Paul Trouard as the Lafayette Police Department’s chief of police. The selection followed a comprehensive review and interview process led by a panel of law enforcement, community, and government leaders.
Chief Trouard brings more than 27 years of law enforcement experience to the role, is a graduate of the FBI National Academy, and has demonstrated exceptional leadership in multiple roles within the Lafayette Police Department. With a strong commitment to public safety, community engagement, and modern policing strategies, he will lead the department in its mission to protect and serve the citizens of Lafayette.
“With public safety as a top priority, I knew it was important for our City to have a fair process with good candidates. I want to thank all four applicants and ten panelists who went through this process with us,” said Mayor-President Monique B. Boulet. “Paul Trouard stood out at every stage. His steady leadership, strategic vision, and commitment to Lafayette earned him overwhelming support from the evaluation panel. I have full confidence that Chief Trouard will continue to bring stability, accountability, and a forward-thinking approach to the department. I look forward to working alongside him to support our law enforcement officers and ensure the safety and well-being of Lafayette.”
The search for a new chief began in May 2024 with more than 10 local, regional and national advertisements followed by Lafayette Municipal Fire and Police Civil Service qualifying, Louisiana Office of State Examiner testing, multiple rounds of evaluations, structured interviews, and a final panel assessment. The goal was to identify a leader who embodies integrity, professionalism, and a clear vision for the future of the Lafayette Police Department.
City Marshal Reggie Thomas recounted his experience as a panelist stating, “This selection panel was really well put together, with the right mix of community members, law enforcement, and city leaders. It truly reflected Lafayette, and I appreciate the Administration for making sure the selection process was fair and inclusive.”
Chief Trouard will officially assume the role effective immediately and will continue to provide steady leadership with a strong focus on delivering a highly trained, accountable and community-oriented police force.
