LAFAYETTE, La. — After a thorough and comprehensive search process, Lafayette Mayor-President Monique B. Boulet has announced Paul Trouard as the new Chief of Police for the Lafayette Police Department. Trouard’s appointment follows a rigorous evaluation process, which involved local, regional, and national advertisements, multiple rounds of interviews, and assessments by a panel of law enforcement, community, and government leaders.
With over 27 years of law enforcement experience, Chief Trouard brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to the position. His career within the Lafayette Police Department has seen him in various roles, including assistant to the chief, where he garnered significant recognition for his steady leadership and commitment to public safety. Trouard also holds numerous law enforcement certifications and is a graduate of the FBI National Academy, further solidifying his credentials.
Mayor-President Boulet expressed confidence in Trouard’s ability to guide the department with integrity and professionalism. “With public safety as a top priority, I knew it was important for our city to have a fair process with good candidates. I want to thank all four applicants and ten panelists who went through this process with us,” Boulet stated. “Paul Trouard stood out at every stage. His steady leadership, strategic vision, and commitment to Lafayette earned him overwhelming support from the evaluation panel. I have full confidence that Chief Trouard will continue to bring stability, accountability, and a forward-thinking approach to the department.”
The search for a new police chief began in May 2024, following the resignation of former Chief Judith Estorge. Trouard, who had been serving as interim chief since May 2024, was selected after an extensive process, which included Lafayette Municipal Fire and Police Civil Service qualifying, Louisiana Office of State Examiner testing, and multiple rounds of evaluations. The city’s goal was to identify a leader who could embody the values of integrity and professionalism while providing a clear vision for the department’s future.
Chief Trouard’s appointment marks the latest chapter in a period of significant turnover in the Lafayette Police Department. Since January 2020, the department has had six different chiefs, including a mix of interim and permanent appointments. This leadership instability has raised concerns about the department’s ability to deliver consistent law enforcement services to the community.
Despite these challenges, Chief Trouard is expected to provide much-needed stability and continuity to the department. “I am honored to have been selected as the Chief of Police for the Lafayette Police Department,” Trouard said in a statement. “My focus will be on ensuring that we have a highly trained, accountable, and community-oriented police force that serves the people of Lafayette with integrity and respect.”
Trouard’s law enforcement career includes a background in the Louisiana National Guard, where he served as a Staff Sergeant. He holds a master’s degree from Columbia Southern University, a bachelor’s degree from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, and an Undergraduate Certificate in Criminal Justice from the University of Virginia.
As Lafayette moves forward under Trouard’s leadership, the city remains focused on strengthening its police force and ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents. Mayor Boulet expressed her full support for the new chief and looks forward to working closely with him to maintain a safe and secure environment for the community.
Trouard’s official appointment as Chief of Police is effective immediately, and he will continue to build on the department’s vision of becoming a model for law enforcement throughout the region.