Slidell Police Chief Eyed for St. Tammany Sheriff Role

Popular law enforcement leader being urged to run for top parish law enforcement job

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

Rumors are circulating that current St. Tammany Sheriff Randy Smith may not seek a fourth term in office when the election is held in 2027. If that's the case, a number of candidates are expected to vie for the position, including the popular and respected Slidell Police Chief Daniel Seuzeneau.

Why it matters

Seuzeneau has built a strong reputation in the community through his innovative use of social media to connect the Slidell Police Department with residents. His potential candidacy for the higher-profile sheriff role would be seen as a significant development in parish politics.

The details

Seuzeneau, who has over 20 years of law enforcement experience, has served as Slidell Police Chief since last October. Prior to that, he was the department's public information officer, using Facebook to showcase the good work of officers and build a strong community bond. Seuzeneau has received numerous accolades over the years, including Officer of the Year in 2013. He has also played a key role in securing funding for a new police station and officer pay raises.

  • Seuzeneau became Slidell Police Chief in October 2025.
  • The St. Tammany Parish sheriff election is scheduled for the fall of 2027.

The players

Daniel Seuzeneau

The current Slidell Police Chief, who has over 20 years of law enforcement experience and has built a strong reputation in the community through his innovative use of social media.

Randy Smith

The current St. Tammany Parish Sheriff, who has held the position for three terms and is reportedly considering whether to run for a fourth term.

Sam O'Keefe

The current Deputy Chief of the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office, who has also been mentioned as a potential candidate for sheriff if Smith does not run again.

Chris Bell

A former St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office officer who has also worked with the DEA, and has been mentioned as a potential candidate for sheriff if Smith does not run again.

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What they’re saying

“I've been honored by the encouragement I've received from members of the community asking me to consider serving in a broader leadership capacity. We never know what the future holds, but in public service, you have to listen to the people and do what is best for the community.”

— Daniel Seuzeneau, Slidell Police Chief (Slidell Independent)

“I'm not saying right now that I'm running and I'm not saying that I won't. Right now, I'm still considering another run. But I probably won't decide for sure until this summer.”

— Randy Smith, St. Tammany Parish Sheriff (Slidell Independent)

What’s next

Sheriff Randy Smith is expected to make a decision on whether to run for a fourth term this summer, which would impact whether Seuzeneau decides to enter the race.

The takeaway

Seuzeneau's potential candidacy for St. Tammany Parish Sheriff would be a significant development, as the popular and respected Slidell Police Chief has built a strong reputation in the community through his innovative use of social media and his leadership of the police department.