New Sulphur Springs ISD police chief takes oath of office

Pat Leber, who has been acting as interim chief since September of 2023, was administered the oath of officie Monday night officially making him the new Sulphur Springs Independent School District Police Department Chief.

Leber was sworn in during Sulphur Springs Independent School District Board of Trustees meeting, with Hopkins County Sheriff Lewis Tatum administering the oath of office. Sulphur Springs Police Chief Jason Ricketson, who previously works for as a police lieutenant, held the Bible Leber swore on.

He was officially appointed to the position rwo weeks ago.

'He has done a phenomenal job working with our SSISD police officers to ensure that our campuses are as safe as possible,' SSISD Superintendent Deana Steeber said following Leber's appointment.

'I am enthusiastic about taking on the pivotal role of Chief of Police for the Sulphur Springs ISD Police Department,” Leber said following his appointment. “With a deep commitment to ensuring the safety of students and staff, it is my goal to provide and maintain a secure and conducive environment for learning. In assuming this leadership position, I express my excitement about implementing strategic initiatives aimed at maintaining a safe and nurturing atmosphere within Sulphur Springs ISD.'

Leber said his primary focus as chief will be the 'collaborative efforts with the school community, law enforcement agencies and stakeholders to proactively address safety concerns and uphold the highest standards of safety and security.'

He plans implement 'innovative safety measures, building strong partnerships, and fostering a sense of community. I would like to express my gratitude for the overwhelming amount of support from our school community.'