Welcome to Olney, Officer Dennis Hahn
The Olney Police Department has a new face on the night shift. Officer Dennis Hahn began patrolling the city’s streets on Monday, Aug. 11, stepping into the role previously held by Officer Clayton Morris who was dismissed from the department last week.
Officer Hahn, a Megargel resident, brings a diverse background in law enforcement and public service to his new position. He grew up across Texas before returning to the Wichita Falls area in 2002. In 2012, he began working as a jailer in the state prison system, gaining experience in corrections and inmate management. Officer Hahn also has served as a volunteer firefighter for Lake Arrowhead and continues to serve with the Megargel Volunteer Fire Department.
Before joining Olney PD, Officer Hahn worked as a deputy with the Archer County Sheriff ’s Office for two years. He said the decision to join Olney’s force was a natural one. “Honestly, it’s just right here down the road,” he said of the move.
In addition to his professional experience, Officer Hahn is a dedicated father. He has six children, including two daughters and a stepson living at home in Megargel.
Officer Hahn officially joined the department on Friday, Aug. 8, and quickly assumed his new duties three days later. Interim Police Chief Autumn Thames said Officer Hahn will be a welcome addition to the department, especially to cover night patrols.
The hiring of Officer Hahn leaves the Olney Police Department short two officers, after the departure of Chief Dan Birbeck, who took the top job at the Vernon Police Department after repeated clashes with City Administrator Simon Dwyer over budget cuts and what Chief Birbeck described as the city administrator’s overstepping into police department matters.
Chief Birbeck resigned from the Olney Police Department following repeated clashes with City Administrator Simon Dwyer.
Chief Birbeck also complained of a failure to communicate regarding budget matters.
Without prior discussion, Mr. Dwyer allegedly attempted to unilaterally cut the department’s FY 2024–2025 budget by $103,000.
Although Chief Birbeck negotiated the reduction down to $63,000, the cuts left the agency struggling to fund training and other core responsibilities, while new administrative positions were simultaneously created at city hall.
Multiple additional issues were raised with city leadership throughout the year but remained unaddressed, ultimately contributing to Chief Birbeck’s decision to step down, he said.