318 N. Court Street
Opelousas, Louisiana 70570
337-948-2500
Perry Gallow, Chief of Police

Opelousas Police Department, One Team - One Mission - One Result!!!  Opelousas Police Department, One Team - One Mission - One Result!!!  Opelousas Police Department, One Team - One Mission - One Result!!!   Opelousas Police Department, One Team - One Mission - One Result!!!   Opelousas Police Department, One Team - One Mission - One Result!!!

Although inconclusive, from a chronological standpoint, it appears that the first Chief of Police of Opelousas was Felix Chachere. However, it should be understood that, according to official records, on file with the Secretary of State's Office in Baton Rouge, LA, the position's official title was "Marshal", and not Chief of Police. This issue not withstanding, shows Felix Chachere holding the office from June 1934 until his demise in January 1941. On January 14, 1941, Roland Chachere was appointed to the post and remained "Marshal" until December 1942. On December 4, 1942, H.B. DeJean took over the reigns. Roland Chachere regained the position in June 1946, and remained in office until he was defeated by Harold J. Doucet in June 1962. Roland Chachere was once again victorious in his bid for the post and, in July 1966, he once again became the city's chief law enforcement executive. In July 1970, Earl Guidroz was elected to the office and, from those records, provided by the Secretary of State's Office, was the last to be "officially" recognized as "Marshal". In August 1974, Howard Zerangue, Sr. was commissioned under the title of "Chief of Police", and held the position until 1980, when he was victorious in his bid for Sheriff of St. Landry Parish.

Percy Lalonde would become the next Chief of Police in September 1980. He was followed in office by Howard Zerangue, Jr., who made his bid for the office after having served as a member of the department's patrol division for several years. Then, in 1991, a historical event was realized. The first African-American Chief of Police was elected, Larry J. Caillier. Chief Caillier resigned the position of Chief of Police on November 30, 2005.  On December 1, 2005 the Opelousas City Council appointed Assistant Chief Alexander T. Peck the position of Chief of Police to fill the remainder of the term of Larry J. Caillier.     

  If you are interested in starting a career with the Opelousas Police Department
click on this link Application.