By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
Retirement time has arrived for Barton County Sheriff’s Office Lieutenant David Paden. A day before his official retirement, the Barton County Commission took time to honor Paden’s 32-plus years with the county’s law enforcement.
Sheriff Brian Bellendir said Paden started with the Sheriff’s Office in 1992.
"I think my first conversation with David Paden was go get a hair cut," joked Bellendir. "He then became patrol officer, K-9 officer, detective, detective sergeant and then I promoted him to lieutenant. On behalf of the Sheriff's Office and Barton County, we want to thank you for your years of service. Thank you for your dedication to the county."
RELATED STORY: Lieutenant Paden retiring after 32 years with Barton Co. Sheriff's Office
In late 2021, Paden was promoted to lieutenant.
After receiving his plaque honoring his years of service, Paden wanted to thank Barton County and the Commission.
"I knew law enforcement was never going to make me rich money wise, but I'm rich family wise more than anyone could ever think," said Paden. "I want to thank you guys for the benefits. I'm able to retire. I'm able to have money for the rest of my life. Because of you guys, I can provide for my family."
Prior to his law enforcement career, Paden worked for an upholstery business, learning how to do car interiors. He plans on getting back into the upholstery field upon his retirement.
A retirement reception will be held Tuesday, April 29 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Barton County Sheriff's Office administrative building.
Hear below the entire discussion honoring Paden's service from the Barton County Commission meeting on Tuesday, April 29, 2025.