A celebration was held earlier this month for Franklin Police Deputy Chief Bruce Bateman, who officially retired after 28 years of service. Bateman started his first day on the job April 14, 1986, but he is no ordinary officer. Prior to the law enforcement gig and fresh out of high school, Bateman signed a professional baseball contract with the New York Yankees, playing for three years with their minor league clubs from 1967-1969.
Bateman served in the United States Army from 1970-1978 and joined the U.S. Army Reserves, retiring after 28 years of service.
The Vietnam Vet graduated from Troy University in 1978 and went to work as a Memphis Police Officer for four years before making his way to Franklin.
Bateman’s distinguished service to the Franklin Police Department includes promotions to Field Training Officer, Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Deputy Police Chief. He is a 1997 graduate of the prestigious FBI National Academy and is Past President of the Rotary Club of Cool Springs, Leadership Franklin Alumni, and was named 1995 Officer of the Year by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies. This and his role in helping to create the Department’s Citizens’ Police Academy are two of the things he is proudest of.
“I’m proud of the fact that the Department has evolved over the years to become a very professional organization with highly trained, professional officers,” stated Bateman. “The FPD is highly recognized in the local law enforcement community, and on a national level. It has been such an honor to be a part of it all.”
Chief David Rahinsky noted on Bateman’s contribution to the community and stated, “Deputy Chief Bateman’s years of selfless service to this Department and our community are representative of his character as a true public servant. He will be missed.”
