Minden, Louisiana — Ryan Barnette has officially announced his candidacy for Chief of Police in Minden, Louisiana, bringing more than 16 years of law enforcement experience and deep community roots to the race.

Barnette spent 12 years serving with the Minden Police Department, where he worked patrol, investigations, Special Response Team operations, and advanced through the ranks to Lieutenant. His experience spans dispatch, patrol supervision, and criminal investigations involving property crimes, violent crimes, juvenile cases, sex crimes, financial crimes, narcotics, and SWAT operations.

After his time with MPD, Barnette served four years as an Investigator with the Claiborne Parish Sheriff’s Office. For the last few years, he has worked in bank and financial security while maintaining a valid law enforcement commission and meeting all Louisiana POST certification training requirements.

Barnette began his law enforcement career under the late Chief T.C. Bloxom, whom he credits with shaping his heart for public service. He also served under former Chief Steve Cropper, whose leadership left a lasting impression on both the department and the community.

“I was blessed to serve under Chief Steve Cropper,” Barnette said.

“His fairness, strength, and compassion left a lasting impact on this department and on the people of Minden. I am honored to have his support and forever grateful for his guidance and friendship.”

“Minden is home,” Barnette said. “Even when my career led me to serve in a neighboring parish, my home never changed. I believe the best person to lead the Minden Police Department is someone who understands both the community and the officers who serve it — because they’ve lived it.”

In addition to his law enforcement career, Barnette is the owner and operator of Nine and One Tactical, where he has spent more than six years teaching firearm safety and personal defense to citizens and law  enforcement officers, including members of Minden Police Department’s Special Response Team.

Barnette says his campaign will focus on experience, professionalism, and a clear vision for the future of the department. He has committed to running a positive campaign, emphasizing qualifications and leadership rather than personal attacks.

“If elected, I have no political ambitions beyond serving as Chief of Police,” Barnette said. “This is not a steppingstone. My focus is on strengthening community engagement, expanding education, supporting officer morale, and providing transparent, present leadership.”

Barnette’s guiding motto for the campaign is “Strength. Respect. Accountability.”

He emphasizes that a strong police department depends on trust and accountability flowing between officers and the community they serve.

“My goal is to help build the bridge between your police department and your neighborhoods, businesses, and families,” he said.

Barnette has called Minden home for 18 years and this is where he and his wife Stephanie are raising their children, Noah and Harper, who are all active in the community. He says family and community are central to his commitment to public service.

The election for Minden Chief of Police will be held in November 2026.

For more information, follow Ryan Barnette for Chief of Police on social media.