Former BRPD Deputy Chief hired as EBR public schools’ director of security

The East Baton Rouge Parish School System is proud to announce the addition of retired Deputy Police Chief Robert McGarner as the new director of EBRPSS School Security. The hire marks a move toward addressing ongoing community concerns about school security and safety.

“We are committed to the safety and security of our students and staff. We are extremely excited to have someone with retired Deputy Chief McGarner’s robust public safety experience and roots that run deep in the Baton Rouge community. We believe he will be an asset to our team and a role model to our young people,” stated Superintendent Sito Narcisse, Ed.D.

McGarner brings over 32 years of experience with the Baton Rouge Police Department. During his time with BRPD, McGarner worked in Uniform Patrol, Criminal Division/Homicide, and was a member of the Special Response Team (SRT), mayor’s security detail, school drug task force, commander of the BRAVE Enforcement Division, commander of the Street Crimes Division and finally as a BRPD deputy chief.

“I am excited for the opportunity to meet a new challenge that allows me to use my experience and continue to serve our children and families. Safety is my main concern. I am already thinking through the ways that we can improve on our current safety and security protocols,” McGarner said.

During his time with BRPD, McGarner received many letters of commendation from his supervisors, letters of appreciation from the community and was a recipient of the Life Saving Award in 1993.