Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry appoints St. George interim mayor, police chief

BATON ROUGE, La. (BRPROUD) — Gov. Jeff Landry announced the appointments of the new City of St. George interim mayor and chief of police Tuesday morning.

Landry named Dustin Yates as interim mayor and Todd Morris as police chief.

“Chief Morris and Mayor Yates have the experience needed to fill these roles, especially during this important time of transition. I look forward to the work they will do to ensure St. George is a safe and thriving community,” said Landry.

Yates is serving his 19th year with the St. George Fire Department. He has held different positions in the fire department including firefighter/operator, lieutenant, and chief administrative officer.

“I am extremely humbled to be appointed by Governor Landry to lead this newly created city as the interim Mayor. Our goal will be to ensure a timely transition that will set up the City of St. George for long-term success,” said Yates.

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Morris has 34 years of experience in law enforcement, most recently serving in the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office overseeing multiple divisions, according to the governor’s office. He also served as a Louisiana Department of Justice investigator for eight years.

“I would like to thank Governor Landry for this appointment and trusting in me. I am honored and humbled by the opportunity to serve as the first Chief of Police for the City of St. George. I have called this community home for the past 40 years. I am excited to bring my 34 years of law enforcement experience to serve the citizens of St. George. I am committed to working collaboratively with our residents, business owners, Sheriff Gautreaux and the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office, as well as the community leaders to ensure St. George is a safe, welcoming, and thriving city for all,” said Morris.

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