Coggins Named MSU Police Chief

Midwestern State University has named Patrick E. Coggins as the chief of police. He replaces Chief Dan Williams who retired in December. Coggins will begin his duties at the university in February.

Coggins' 27-year career in law enforcement includes positions in United States Air Force, the Texas cities of Winters and Snyder police departments, and the Scurry County Sheriff's Office. From 2003 to 2015 he worked for West Texas A&M University in Canyon, where in 2009 he was promoted to lieutenant as the director of police operations and in 2014 named director of support services. Presently he serves as the chief of police/director of public safety at Texas A&M University-Central Texas in Killeen.

"We are very pleased to welcome Chief Coggins to the Midwestern State University community," said Dr. Keith Lamb, Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. "He brings a wealth of campus experience and familiarity with federal and state regulations affecting higher education."

Coggins earned an associate's degree from Western Texas College, a Bachelor of Applied Arts & Sciences from MSU, and a Master of Criminal Justice from Troy University. He is currently enrolled in the Leadership Command College at the Bill Blackwood Law Enforcement Management Institute of Texas at Sam Houston State University.

"I am honored to have been selected for this position and look forward to working with the MSU team in order to provide the highest possible level of law enforcement service to the university community," Coggins said. "My family and I are truly excited about this opportunity, and look forward to making our home in Wichita Falls and becoming a part of the Midwestern State community." Coggins has a son, a daughter, and two grandchildren. His wife Shawna is a nurse.

Coggins holds certifications for Master Peace Officer, Police Instructor, Police Firearms Instructor, Crime Prevention Inspector, and Law Enforcement Fitness.