James Kevin Houston was hired at the Oxford Police Department in 2000 starting as an auxiliary officer.

On Tuesday, the Oxford Board of Aldermen read a resolution during their regular meeting, recognizing Houston’s accomplishments and his retirement from the force after 24 years of service.

After transitioning to a full-time Patrol Officer, he went on to become a Field Training Officer, K9 Officer, School Resource Officer, court bailiff/warrant officer, SWAT team member, Housing Officer, Patrol Sergeant, Patrol Lieutenant, and ultimately a Captain.

Houston was recognized with several awards over the years, including SWAT Officer of the Year, winning several community service awards as well as being named Officer of the Month several times.

He was most recently serving as the school resource officer at Bramlett Elementary School.

After OPD Chief Jeff McCutchen read the resolution at the meeting, Houston thanked the city officials and OPD for allowing him to serve Oxford.

“Being a police officer is something I wanted to do my entire life,” he said, his voice cracking with emotion. “I’ve had a great career. I’ve had some highs and some lows; made some good friends … I’m going to miss the kids at Bramlett. It’s probably been the best years I’ve had in a long time.”