BIOGRAPHY OF DARRELL L. FANT
Darrell L. Fant, Director of Public Safety, has served the Town of Highland Park since 1975. Director Fant, commonly referred to as "Chief Fant", began his employment with the Town as a police officer and soon after crossed trained as firefighter and paramedic. Chief Fant was promoted to several levels of supervision until he was selected as Director of Public Safety in 1987. As Director, Darrell Fant has the responsibility for the overall direction and focus of the consolidated police, fire and emergency medical services of the Town's Department of Public Safety staffed by 67 employees.
Chief Fant attended Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas, where he graduated with a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice in 1974. He graduated from the FBI National Academy in 1989 in Quantico, Virginia and has trained with the U.S. Secret Service in the area of dignitary protection. He currently holds his Master Police and Fire Certifications from the State of Texas, Police and Fire Instructor Certifications, and is a paramedic. He is also a State Certified Handgun Safety Instructor.
Chief Fant was distinguished with a National Heroism Award in 1984 by Firehouse Magazine for heroism in the line of duty. Additionally, he has been decorated with numerous Departmental awards and citizen commendations.
Chief Fant received the 1999 Trailblazer’s Award from Mother’s Against Drunk Driving (MADD) for outstanding contributions in the enforcement of underage drinking. Additionally, in 2002, Darrell Fant received the Bert Ford Commendation from the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission for enforcement of the alcoholic beverage laws in the State of Texas.
Darrell Fant served as the 2001 President of the FBI National Academy Association of Texas.
Darrell Fant is 50 years old, and he and his wife Jeanne reside in Dallas, Tx along with two children and one grandchild.