La Grande Police Chief Gary Bell officially retires after 33 years of service.
By Garrett Christensen on Wednesday, February 25th, 2026 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
LA GRANDE – After a 33 year-career with the La Grande Police Department, LGPD Chief Gary Bell officially completed his final day of service on Friday, February 20. According to the LGPD, Bell served in a number of roles over the years, include a police officer, detective, sergeant, swat commander, lieutenant, and, finally, chief for the past six years.
In a social media post on Bell’s last day, the LGPD wrote:
“Chief Bell, thank you for your devotion to this department and community. Thank you for your three decades of service, sacrifice, and leadership. From your police family — we honor you, we celebrate you, and we are deeply grateful for all you have given over the past 33 years. Congratulations on your retirement — your legacy will continue to inspire us for years to come.”
The LGPD would also honor Bell’s wife, Maryaan, who stood by her husband throughout his career. As further written by the LGPD:
“Her unwavering support through the long nights, challenging moments, and many milestones made this journey possible. This next chapter is one they have truly earned together.”
It wasn’t just Bell’s own department that honored his retirement. The Oregon Association of Police Chiefs would also give thanks to bell for his decades of service to La Grande, as well as nine years of membership with the OACP, writing:
“Chief Bell has also been a valued member of OACP for the past nine years, including five years as the District 15 representative. In that role, he helped welcome new chiefs in Eastern Oregon and ensured the voices of leaders in more rural and remote communities were heard across the state.
Chief Bell, thank you for your decades of service, sacrifice, and leadership. The OACP honors your contributions to Oregon law enforcement and wishes you the very best in your well-earned retirement. “
As is also tradition for local EMS, a special message was read on-air by the Union County 911 dispatch center for all to hear on the day of Bell’s retirement. A copy of the recording can be listened to below:
LGPD Lieutenant, now chief, Jason Hays officially took over the role from Bell on February 20. More on his appointment can be found here.
