BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — Bakersfield Chief of Police Greg Terry, who is set to retire this month, was recognized for his 30 years of service to the city of Bakersfield at the Wednesday City Council meeting.

In October 2025, Terry announced his plans to retire in late April after leading the Bakersfield Police Department as chief for nearly six years.

Brent Stratton, who was serving as an assistant chief, was named the next police chief to fill Terry’s role. His appointment goes into effect May 1.

Terry was hired as a Bakersfield police officer in 1997, according to Mayor Karen Goh at the meeting. Since then, he’s held numerous titles with the most recent one being police chief.

Goh thanked Terry for his commitment to the city, saying he represented the city with integrity and professionalism. She also commended his humility.

City Manager Christian Clegg said Terry has been incredibly dedicated to his community and police department.

“But in particular what stands out is leading from heart and leading in a way that, Chief Terry, I’ve never doubted that you would make the right decision for the right reasons in serving this community,” said Clegg.

Goh awarded Terry a certificate and the Mayor’s medal in honor of his 30 years of  service.

Clegg presented a plaque of recognition, as well as three street signs: A blue sign with the words “Greg Terry – City of Bakersfield 30 Years of Service,” a green sign reading “Greg Terry Way” and a sign with his name written next to the Louisiana State University Tigers logo.

Terry said he would not be here today without everyone he has worked with in the police department, saying he’s proud of the work they do every single day.

“The future is bright,” Terry said. “Chief Stratton coming on has the right heart, he loves his community, he loves his people, and he certainly will do right by all of them.”

Terry thanked the community for their support of the police department, as well as believing in the department and working with the officers. He also thanked the City Council for the resources and discussions that helped BPD’s work.

Finally, he thanked his wife and children for supporting and allowing him to serve “where (his) heart lies in this community.”

Brent Stratton announced as new Bakersfield police chief

Terry began his law enforcement career in his hometown of Lafayette, Louisiana in 1990.

He worked in several units and positions since joining BPD in 1997, including patrol, the special enforcement unit, investigations, public information office and internal affairs.

Terry served as the assistant chief of police in 2017. He was named chief of police following former chief Lyle Martin’s retirement in December 2019.

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