BEDFORD— The Bedford Police Department officially recognized and celebrated the historic careers of two of its most senior leaders on Thursday, as Colonel Joe DeWees and Major Brian Turpen prepare to wrap up their final shifts. Both officers are set to retire effective at the close of business on Friday, July 3, 2026.
Together, the two law enforcement veterans represent more than three-quarters of a century of institutional knowledge, community leadership, and dedication to public safety in the City of Bedford.
Colonel Joe DeWees is retiring after more than 38 years of dedicated service. Throughout his nearly four decades in uniform, Colonel DeWees has been a fixture of local law enforcement, helping guide the department through generational changes in policing and technology while serving as a trusted mentor to dozens of younger officers.
Major Brian Turpen concludes a remarkable career spanning nearly 37 years of faithful service to the community. Over his tenure, Major Turpen has worn many hats within the department, including serving as a long-time Secretary of the Bedford Police Pension Board and actively representing his peers as a three-time Past President of the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) Stone City Lodge #94. Notably, Major Turpen is also a past recipient of the prestigious Medal of Valor from the American Police Hall of Fame.
In a statement, the Bedford Police Department praised the men’s impact:
“Throughout their careers, both have demonstrated exceptional professionalism, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to public safety. Their contributions have had a lasting impact on our department and the community we proudly serve.”
Following their retirement, the department’s leadership structure will undergo a transition, with Major Jeremy Bridges already approved by the City of Bedford Board of Works and Safety for promotion to the rank of Colonel, effective July 4.
A New Chapter in Local Schools
While their days of answering standard patrol calls are coming to an end, neither DeWees nor Turpen is stepping away from public service entirely.
Both retirees will continue to protect and serve the community in their upcoming roles as School Resource Officers (SROs) with North Lawrence Community Schools (NLCS). Major Turpen is already highly familiar with this environment, having previously balanced his duties to serve as the SRO assigned to Bedford Middle School, where he also acts as the Middle School Athletic Director.
Their transition into full-time SRO roles ensures that local schools will benefit directly from their combined 75-plus years of real-world law enforcement experience, keeping students safe while fostering positive relationships between local youth and police.
The department concluded its tribute by inviting the public to celebrate the milestone:
“Please join us in thanking Colonel DeWees and Major Turpen for their many years of service and in wishing them continued success in this next chapter of their careers. Congratulations on your well-earned retirement, and thank you for everything you have done for the Bedford Police Department and the citizens of Bedford.”
