Chief of Police Robert D. Rife

Robert D. Rife was sworn in as Chief of Police in January of 2024. He has been with the Pantego Police Department since March 2020, quickly rising through the ranks from Patrol, to Detective, to Corporal, and interim Captain. In addition to numerous instructor and training certifications, Rife holds a Master Peace Officer License, which is the highest level of recognition granted by the state for law enforcement; and is working toward a bachelor’s degree in business administration.

“My priority during the first year will be developing and training my officers to provide the highest quality of service and building strong partnerships within our community to ensure that the Town of Pantego continues to be a great place to live,” Chief Rife said.

Before joining PPD, Rife spent nine years with the Watauga Police Department (2011-2020), where he achieved the rank of Corporal and was a K9 Handler. He also served in the U.S. Army (2008-2009) during Operation Iraqi Freedom and proudly continues to serve his country as a Staff Sergeant in the Army Reserves.

As the Chief of Police, Rife will employ his 12 years of law enforcement and 17 years of military experience to oversee an annual budget of $2 million (more than 30% of the Town’s total annual operating budget), set the tone for both policing and community engagement, and direct the day-to-day operations of the department’s fourteen sworn officers and five civilian employees.