Assistant Chief

Assistant Chief of Police Dexter Scott began his career in law enforcement in 2007 as a Communications Officer with the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office.  He then became a Sheriff's Deputy in 2010 and worked as the School Resource Officer (SRO) for the rural schools in Cherokee County.

In 2015, Dexter joined the Tahlequah Police Department as a Patrolman and quickly climbed the ranks, being promoted to Sergeant in 2017, Lieutenant in 2018, and Assistant Chief in November 2023.  Before his promotion to Assistant Chief, he served as the Training and Development Coordinator starting in 2021.

Dexter has an extensive list of law enforcement certifications, including Clan Lab, Basic Instructor Development (BID), International Police Mountain Bike Association (IPMBA), Post Blast Investigation, and CLEET Instructor.

Throughout his career, Dexter has been recognized with several awards. He was named Cherokee County Dispatcher of the Year in 2009, Elks Lodge Officer of the Year in 2010, Tahlequah Chamber of Commerce Officer of the Year in 2011, and Domestic Violence/Assault Officer of the Year in 2011.

Dexter has also served as the President of the Tahlequah FOP and is the current Keys School Board President.  He is a member of the Cherokee County Emergency Plan Group and is the Director and Founder of the Black the Blue Fishing Tournament that's held annually on Tenkiller Lake.