01/22/2026
Our thoughts and prayers are with our partners at the Lawton Police Department on the passing of a great man, Chief Smith
It is with profound sadness that the City of Lawton shares the passing of Lawton Police Chief James T. Smith, who passed away on January 22, 2026, at the age of 66.
January 22, 2026
PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The City of Lawton announces with profound sadness the passing of Lawton Police Chief James T. Smith, 66, who died on January 22, 2026.
Chief Smith dedicated more than 35 years to law enforcement and public service. His career began with the Kentucky State Police before continuing with the Jefferson County Police Department, which later merged into the Louisville Metro Police Department. There, he advanced through the ranks to Major and served as Special Operations Division Commander, overseeing numerous specialized units.
Since 2012, Chief Smith had served as Chief of Police for the Lawton Police Department, where he focused on strengthening community partnerships, supporting officer wellness, and building trust between the department and the residents it serves. His leadership and collaboration with civic and city leaders helped advance the City of Lawton’s vision for a new Public Safety Facility that will include a police headquarters, fire station, city jail, and municipal court.
In addition to his law enforcement career, Chief Smith proudly served 30 years in the military, including service in the Kentucky Army National Guard and the U.S. Army Reserves. He retired in 2011 at the rank of Colonel, bringing the discipline and leadership of military service into his work in public safety.
Chief Smith was widely respected across Oklahoma and beyond. In 2024, he became the first officer from Lawton and Comanche County to receive the William “Bill” Tilghman Public Service Award from the Oklahoma Law Enforcement Hall of Fame. In 2025, the Oklahoma Association of Chiefs of Police named him Large Agency Chief of the Year in recognition of his leadership, commitment to officer wellness, and service to the Lawton community.
“We are profoundly saddened by his passing,” said City Manager John Ratliff. “We extend our deepest condolences to his family and respectfully ask the community to honor their need for privacy during this incredibly difficult time.”
“Chief Smith was more than a law enforcement leader,” said Mayor Stan Booker. “He was a mentor, a protector, and a steady presence for our city. Lawton is better because of his service, and our hearts are with his family, friends, and the entire Lawton Police Department.”
Chief Smith is remembered as a pillar of the Lawton community and a leader whose legacy of service, integrity, and commitment will endure.
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