Billie appointed director of Public Safety

Gabriel “Butch” Billie has been named the Tribe's new Director of Public Safety, Choctaw Indian Tribal Chief Cyrus Ben announced.

Billie, who holds 16 years of law enforcement experience and various federal commissions and certifications, served in the U.S. Marine Corps before he entered law enforcement. 

Ben said Billie’s status as a veteran and many years of experience in the law enforcement field will serve him well in his new role. 

“Butch has worked in Choctaw Wildlife and Parks, the Choctaw Police Department and most recently in the Criminal Investigation Division, all of which are part of the Department of Public Safety,” Ben said. “I know he will thrive in this position.”

As the director, Billie has oversight of all areas under the Tribe’s Department of Public Safety, including Choctaw Wildlife and Parks, including animal control; the Choctaw Police Department; Choctaw Security; and the Choctaw Detention Center, adult and youth. 

Misty Brescia, director of the Office of Public Information for the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, said the Department of Public Safety maintains a skilled workforce and employs approximately 140 employees. 

"We made Mr. Billie's appointment official on Aug. 3," Brescia said.