Caddo Chief Criminal Deputy Set to Retire

Caddo Sheriff Steve Prator says one of his deputies will be retiring soon.

Chief Criminal Deputy D.E. Stevens, who's been in law enforcement for 44 years, with 16 as Chief Deputy, will be leaving the department at the end of this month.

"It has been such an honor and privilege to have worked side by side with my closest confidant and friend," Prator said. "Words can't describe how I will miss him."

According to a CSO news release, Prator appointed Stevens as his right-hand man after winning his first term in office in 2000. Both had previously served together at the Shreveport Police Department.

At SPD, Stevens worked as a patrol officer, investigator and supervisor of Investigations, including the Homicide Division. He was the Special Response Team commander and primary sniper for the unit. He retired from SPD as supervisor of the Narcotics Unit and SRT.

As Chief Deputy, he was responsible for supervision over day-to-day activities involving Patrol, Detention and Special Teams. He calls his retirement bittersweet.

"It was always my dream to be in law enforcement," Stevens said. "Caddo Parish, the City of Shreveport and Steve Prator have allowed this country boy to live his dream. Who wouldn't be proud to retire as Chief Deputy?"

Replacing Stevens will be Lt. Jay Long, a 26-year Sheriff's Office veteran. He'll be working alongside Stevens until the retirement is official.

“I’ve got big shoes to fill, but I’m looking forward to the challenge,” Long said.