Sheriff Gibson

It’s official now.
Sheriff KP Gibson began his first term on Friday after being sworn in by Judge David Smith at the Acadia Parish Courthouse.
Gibson is only the eighth sheriff in Acadia Parish’s history, a fact that was not lost to the ceremony’s master of ceremonies Assessor James “Jimbo” Petitjean.
“Eighth sheriff, we’ve only had eight in 130 years,” said Petitjean tp a standing room only courtroom. “That just goes to show you that you have to get shot in order to lose your job.”
The courtroom erupted in laughter as Gibson made a “wait a minute” gesture to Petitjean.
“K.P. grew up in a law enforcement family with his father (Al) having served as Crowley’s chief and his brother, Kelly, serving with the Lafayette Police Department. I guess when they were younger they must have practiced using the handcuffs on Kerry (former Chamber of Commerce Chairman Kerry Gibson) who was the only outlaw in the bunch,” joked Petitjean.
“KP moved up through the ranks for this moment,” Pettjean continued. “He started off as a patrolman in Lafayette before moving to Crowley to become the chief here. Crowley helped to prepare KP for this job and I know he will always be thankful for his years here as chief.”
Following the Pledge of Allegiance, which was led by Former Chief Al Gibson, Petitjean recognized both former Acadia Parish Sheriffs who were in attendance, Ken Goss and retiring Sheriff Wayne Melancon.
“I want to thank Wayne Melancon for his year of service and I hope you enjoy retirement,” said Petitjean.
Melancon received a standing ovation.
Judge David Smith then came forward to swear in Gibson who’s wife, Monica, and his youngest son, Carter, held the Bible during the oath.
Following his oath, Gibson addressed those in attendance.
“I’d like to begin by thanking God and ask that he looks over all law enforcement personnel across the country,” he said. “We had three officers in Louisiana who were shot just in the last week alone. This is a dangerous job and it takes a special kind of person to do it.
“I’d also like to thank my family ... my wife, Monica, and sons, Cameron and Carter,” Gibson added. “Election years are rough and they stuck by me through all of this. I also want to thank my father, my mother as well as all my relatives who came out to show me their support.”
Gibson also made a point to thank outgoing Sheriff Wayne Melancon.
“Wayne made this transition a smooth one and gave me some much needed support.”
Gibson then made two pledges. The first was to all the elected officials in attendance.
“I promise I will be working with you to ensure that our government works for the people we serve,” he said.
He then made a pledge to the people of Acadia Parish.
“I am here to serve you and mostly to work with you,” he said. “I ask for your help in deterring crime in our parish.
“If you see anything suspicious don’t ever hesitate to call our office. Accountability is the number one thing in an officer’s job. And, as of today, it starts with me.”