SLIDELL, LA – Former Slidell Police Officer Tommy Benasco has announced his candidacy for Police Chief in St. Tammany's largest city, in the race to succeed current chief and Sheriff-elect Randy Smith.
Benasco, 52, served multiple roles at the Slidell Police Department from 1993-2006 and from 2010-2013. Beginning as a reserve patrol officer in 1993, Benasco also served as a detective in the Narcotics, Personal Crimes and Property Crimes units, and as an Arson Investigator. After leaving professional law enforcement to pursue private business interests, Benasco remained a member of the SPD Reserve Division for several years.
"Even when working in other professional pursuits, law enforcement has remained my passion and my calling," said Benasco, who now owns a contracting business in the city. "Keeping our community safe for my wife and children and for all the people who live and work in Slidell is my driving passion, and will guide me throughout my campaign and, if the voters so choose, as their Chief of Police."
The election to replace Smith has not been called, but is expected to be held in November 2016.
Benasco has been married to Joanne Benasco for 31 years, and the couple has four grown children, ages 20-27 and one grandchild. A native of New York, Benasco has lived in Slidell since 1984. The Benascos are members of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Slidell.
