Bartlesville Police Department Deputy Chief Andrew Ward has been selected to take over the role of police chief, Assistant City Manager Laura Sanders said Tuesday.
Ward, who was offered the position following an internal application process that closed last month, will officially become Bartlesville police chief on July 2, following the retirement of Chief Kevin Ickleberry.
“Deputy Chief Ward has the full confidence of both the City administration team and the men and women of the Bartlesville Police Department,” said Assistant City Manager Laura Sanders. “Throughout this process, it was clear that not only is he prepared to lead, but he is deeply committed to doing so with integrity, transparency, and dedication.
“As part of our internal selection process, we engaged independent subject matter experts to support our evaluation — a reflection of the City’s commitment to a thorough and fair process. Both affirmed — without hesitation — that Deputy Chief Ward is the right choice to guide the future of public safety in Bartlesville. Their conclusions aligned with what we have consistently observed: a thoughtful, principled leader who approaches every decision with integrity and intention.”
Ward began his career in law enforcement with the Kay County Detention Center in 2010 and the Blackwell Police Department in 2011. He joined the Bartlesville Police Department in 2012, where he served as a K-9 officer from 2012 to 2022. He earned the ranks of corporal in 2018 and sergeant in 2020. He was named captain in 2022 and was promoted to deputy chief in 2024. He has served in Operations, Patrol, and the Investigation divisions of the department.
Ward holds degrees in Criminal Justice Administration and has earned several certifications in advanced law enforcement and leadership training, including the Oklahoma Municipal Assurance Group New Chief’s Training School and the Southern Police Institute Administrative Officer’s Course.
Other accomplishments include:
- BPD Officer of the Year 2013
- BPD Lifesaving Award 2016
- Crime Stoppers Officer of the Year 2016
- Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics Directors Award 2021
- Oklahoma Association Chiefs of Police Award of Commendation 2022
- Leadership Bartlesville Class 34
- Young Professionals of Bartlesville Emerging Stars Under 40
Ward will continue in his role of deputy chief pending Ickleberry’s retirement in July. Ickleberry has been on personal leave due to a medical issue since December 2025. Deputy Chief Troy Newell has served as Acting Chief in his absence. Newell, who announced in March he would not seek the chief position, will continue as acting chief until Ickleberry’s retirement.
“I have had the privilege of working alongside D.C. Ward for many years, and I can say without hesitation that he is exceptionally well-qualified to lead the Bartlesville Police Department,” Newell said. “He approaches every decision with thoughtfulness and professionalism and always strives to do what is right rather than what is easy or popular. This has earned him the respect and trust of both his peers and the community he serves. He is one of the finest individuals I know, and I look forward to serving under his leadership.”
“Deputy Chief Ward steps into this role with genuine enthusiasm and a clear vision for strengthening relationships both inside the department and throughout the community,” said Sanders. “We are confident he will lead with professionalism, accountability, and a strong commitment to serving the people of Bartlesville.”