Richard Ashe has been named chief of police for the City of Liberty, following a unanimous vote by the Liberty City Council during its regular meeting on Monday, April 8.
Ashe had been serving as interim police chief since Feb. 19.
With a career spanning more than four decades in military and civilian law enforcement, Ashe brings extensive experience and leadership to the Liberty Police Department. He began his career in service to the nation as a member of the U.S. Army from 1981 to 1984 and has since built a legacy in Texas law enforcement.
Ashe served 27 years with the Temple Police Department, where he rose through the ranks and was promoted to lieutenant in 2017. He later served as chief of police in Salado, Kenedy and Morgan’s Point. His leadership credentials include serving as president of the Texas Municipal Police Association (TMPA) from 1997 to 1998 and as a board member of both TMPA and the Texas Police Chiefs Association.
“Chief Ashe’s combination of experience, integrity, and leadership made him the clear choice to lead our police department,” said City Manager Bryan Kendrick. “His commitment to professional policing and public service aligns with the values and the expectations of our City Council and our community.”
Ashe holds a Master Peace Officer License and is a graduate of the U.S. Army Military Police School, the Texas Police Officer Academy in Waco, and the Leadership Command College through the Law Enforcement Management Institute of Texas. He is a certified TCOLE instructor and has served as an assessor for the Texas Police Chiefs Association Accreditation Program.
Beyond his professional law enforcement service, Ashe has also shown a strong commitment to public service. He was elected alderman for the Village of Salado and later served as its mayor. He also served on the Central Texas Council of Governments Executive Board.
“I would like to thank the City Council and City Manager for their support. I’m honored to have the opportunity to serve the City of Liberty in this capacity,” said Chief Ashe. “This is a community that values safety, service, and accountability, and I look forward to working with our officers and residents to build a department that reflects those values every day.”
Chief Ashe officially assumes his new role effective immediately.