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Gun Barrel City Today
By the People, for the People
Gun Barrel City Police Department Undergoes 'Total Rehaul'
Department adds new officers and policies as city sees influx of lake visitors
Mar. 21, 2026 at 3:34am
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The Gun Barrel City Police Department in Texas is undergoing a 'total rehaul,' according to Sgt. Connie Pena, with two new officers being sworn in and the department implementing new policies and procedures. The city, named after the 'straight as a gun barrel' SH 198, has seen its population swell on weekends due to its proximity to Cedar Creek Lake, leading to an increase in vehicle break-ins as many people leave their cars unlocked.
Why it matters
The changes at the Gun Barrel City Police Department aim to improve public safety and service for the community, which has seen significant population growth on weekends due to its lakeside location, leading to an increase in property crimes that the department is working to address.
The details
Sgt. Connie Pena said the department is 'getting better, hand-over-fist better, than what it's ever been before' with the addition of new personnel and updated policies. The city was named after Gun Barrel Lane, now known as SH 198, which is known for being 'straight as a gun barrel.' The nearby Cedar Creek Lake has attracted many visitors to the area, leading the city to incorporate 'so that we could sell alcohol' and add to the 'lake atmosphere.' However, this influx of visitors has also resulted in an increase in vehicle break-ins, as many people leave their cars unlocked, making them easy targets for burglars.
- On Tuesday, KETK recognized the Gun Barrel City Police Department during their KETK Gives Back segment.
- On Thursday afternoon, two brand new officers were sworn in to the department.
- The city's 'July Fest' event is scheduled for July 30 and will feature 70s, 80s and 90s music.
The players
Sgt. Connie Pena
A sergeant with the Gun Barrel City Police Department who discussed the department's 'total rehaul' and new personnel and policies.
Gun Barrel City
A Texas city named after the 'straight as a gun barrel' SH 198, which has seen its population swell on weekends due to its proximity to Cedar Creek Lake.
What they’re saying
“We're adding to our personnel, we're implementing new policies and procedures. The department is getting better, hand-over-fist better, than what it's ever been before, and I'm looking forward to being a part of that.”
— Sgt. Connie Pena, Sergeant
“It was so that we could sell alcohol. It adds to the lake atmosphere.”
— Sgt. Connie Pena, Sergeant
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.
