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Bartlesville Police Chief Tracy Roles has issued a new directive which amends the current policy on facial hair at the Bartlesville Police Department.

The new directive allows any uniformed or non-uniformed police officers to grow a full beard if they wish. With that in mind, Chief Roles has set forth grooming standards. In a statement, Chief Roles stated:

“I would ask that anyone choosing to have any facial hair to be mindful of a professional image. Also, please adhere to facial hair being no longer than a half inch in length and always be neatly trimmed and maintained as to not interfere with the wearing of personal safety mask or other personal protective equipment."

The wearing of full beards will be monitored for compliance and professionalism for a period of six months. By April 2021, a determination will be made as to allowing this practice on a more permanent basis.