Clayton named acting police chief

Bogalusa Mayor Mack McGehee Friday named Effie Clayton acting police chief until Nov. 1.

Clayton will take over for Chief Jerry Agnew who was placed on extended medical leave Thursday. She will move up from the position of assistant chief.

“I’ve got all the confidence and faith that she has the ability to run the department as efficiently as it can be run,” said McGehee. “We had a meeting this morning. I’m excited for the future of the Bogalusa Police Department.”

Clayton has been with the BPD since 1978. She was promoted to the position of assistant chief in 2004.

She said she’s ready to take charge, and that she has faith in her “team.”

“I’m going to rely on everybody to help out,” said Clayton. “I’m depending on teamwork to make this department run.”

She said “it’s different” being chief and that she’s still just settling into the top job, but she’s confident she can handle the task of directing those who protect and serve.

If Agnew does not return, Clayton said she will “take the test” for the permanent position of chief of police.

Agnew, who had open heart surgery five years ago, said he is currently seeing a number of doctors including a neurologist who recently “discovered issues” with his carotid artery.

He said he will base his decision on whether or not to return to the job on his doctors’ advice. The decision will be made by Nov. 1.

In the meantime, Maj. Rocky Gerald has been named acting assistant chief of police to fill the spot vacated by Clayton.