By Fox23.com News Staff
BARTLESVILLE, Okla. — The Bartlesville Police Chief is set to retire this summer.
Kevin Ickleberry has announced he is leaving after 31 years of service with the Bartlesville Police Department. His retirement will be effective on July 1.
“Chief Ickleberry has served our community with integrity, kindness, and dedication for more than 30 years,” said Assistant City Manager Laura Sanders, who oversees the Police Department. “His career reflects a deep commitment to both the department and the community, and I have always admired the character he has brought to his leadership role. I know I speak for the entire community in thanking him for his years of service and congratulating him on his well-earned retirement.”
Ickleberry has been on personal leave due to a medical issue since December 2025 and will remain on leave for the time being. Deputy Chief Troy Newell has been in the role of acting chief and will remain there until a new chief has been found.
Ickleberry started his career with the city as a reserve officer in October 1989. He then moved to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office in January 1995 and served as the deputy sheriff until December 1995. He was hired by the Bartlesville Police Department later that month.
He has earned several awards throughout his career including the Fraternal Order of Police Officer of the Year in 2004 and Bartlesville Area Crime Stoppers Award in 2003.
Sanders says the search for a new police chief is set to begin soon.
