Lynn Haven swears in Lewis Blanchard as police chief; four promoted, four officers sworn in

Lynn Haven on Friday swore in Lewis Blanchard as the city’s new police chief, with Mayor Lowry, visiting chiefs and county law-enforcement leaders in attendance. The ceremony included an invocation, remarks from city leaders and the swearing-in and promotion of multiple department members.

Mayor Lowry praised Blanchard’s three decades of law-enforcement experience and said the city expects his leadership to build trust and transparency with residents. “I wish you nothing but the best in your new role and pledge to do all I can to support you,” the mayor said.

Chaplain Chris Rayberg offered an invocation asking for protection for Blanchard, the Lynn Haven Police Department and other first responders.

An official administered the oath of office to Blanchard, who pledged to perform the duties of a Lynn Haven police officer and to support and defend the constitutions of the United States and the state of Florida. After the oath, Blanchard thanked attendees and described his decision to move from larger agencies to a smaller department where he can work more closely with officers.

“As your chief,” Blanchard said, “I promise you that I’ll do a great job.” He emphasized leadership, mentoring and integrity, and said he values an agency culture that balances accountability with support for officers.

Blanchard then led promotional recognitions and swearing-in events. Those called forward for promotion or swearing included Corporal Lina Havlicek, Sergeant Jeremy Hogan, Sergeant Dakota Walsh and communications manager Lucy Rose. Four new officers — Louis Casablanca, Jason Rawlings, Joey Cruz Turellis and Dustin Sawyer — were sworn in and welcomed to the department.

Sheriff Tommy Ford of Bay County welcomed Blanchard to the region, praised local interagency cooperation and said Bay County agencies will offer support when needed. “If you need something, all you have to do is call me or one of these police chiefs,” Ford said.

The ceremony closed with photo opportunities and refreshments; city officials encouraged attendees to meet and speak with the new chief and promoted staff. No votes or formal city actions were recorded during the ceremony.

The city provided no additional details in the transcript about an effective start date for Blanchard beyond the swearing ceremony, and no formal personnel orders or resolutions were mentioned.