Don Williams leaves behind 30-year legacy with Mesquite Police Department
One of the Mesquite Police Department’s most visible members is hanging up his badge and gun after nearly three decades of service.
Don Williams came on with the department in 1987 as a jailer and became a police officer two years later.
It’s obvious he knew as soon as he graduated from Mesquite High School in 1984 exactly what he wanted to do with his life.
“I wanted to be … not just a police officer, but a Mesquite police officer,” Williams said. “[Retiring] was a very difficult decision to make because I care so much about the Mesquite Police Department and the community.”
Williams is leaving what he calls his “dream job” to pursue another passion: educating others about law enforcement. He was recently offered a job to serve as a law enforcement teacher in Rockwall. He is obtaining his alternative teaching certification so he can begin a new career when school resumes.
“Anyone that knows me, knows working with kids and teenagers is my passion.” he said. “With this opportunity, it was just the right time.”
Williams was one of Mesquite ISD’s orginial school resource officers. He served for 10 years in that role, what he said was among the most enjoyable times he served in the department.
Though he only worked with him a short time, Mesquite Police Chief Charles Cato said Williams quickly made an impression on him.
“I have found Officer Williams to be a consummate professional,” the chief said. “He exhibits the highest standards of police service, and I wish him all the best in his retirement and new career.”
Williams’ retirement will leave a void other officers must step in and fill.
“As Don’s supervisor, I can say that I have not been looking forward to his retirement,” said Mesquite Police Lt. Brian Parrish. “The impact that Don’s professional dedication has had on this department cannot be understated. He is a trusted and vital part of my bureau, and he will be missed.”
Williams said he is already missing interacting with his brothers and sisters in blue and with others in the community, but is looking forward to new adventures as an educator.
Among Williams’ proudest achievements is leading the Santa Cop Program for the past 30 years, helping improve the Citizens Police Academy, his work on the family service team, and serving 16 years as president of the Mesquite Police Association.
“I am so excited we built Santa Cop into the program that it is today,” he said. “To help over 650 kids each year that might not have had Christmas is incredible.
According to Williams, the Mesquite Police Academy was on the verge of disbandment when he was asked several years ago to intervene.
“The chief said, ‘I need you to fix it or get rid of it.’ I analyzed what needed to be done and put new programs in place,” Williams explained. “It has grown from 15 to over 150 members. They have been recognized twice within the last six years as the No. 1 group in the state of Texas.”
Mesquite Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association President Barbara Dunn said the organization will miss Williams’ leadership and ideas, calling him the “heart and soul” of the organization.
“The MCPAA was working at about a 10 percent level in 2007. When Don became the liaison, the graph just kept going up,” she said. “He got us going on the road and the only way to go is up.
Those wishing to thank Williams for his contributions to the community may attend a retirement reception at 2 p.m. Aug. 5 at Family Cathedral of Praise, 790 Windbell Circle in Mesquite.
Article courtest of the Mesquite News | facebook.com/MesquiteTXNews
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