King Cole

Friends, family, and fellow officers will meet at Police Headquarters Friday afternoon at 2:00 to celebrate the 25-year career of retiring Franklin Police Officer Richard Cole. His first day on the job was October 19, 1987 when his distinguished career with the FPD started from under a headset in the Department’s Emergency Communications Center. After two years, Cole was promoted to police officer and spent the following 23 years in varied assignments including Patrol Officer, Crime Scene Technician, D.A.R.E. Officer, and Police Explorer Advisor. In 1993, he was named Officer of the Year by the Franklin Exchange Club. For the last two years, Officer Cole has served as the School Resource Officer for Freedom Middle and Poplar Grove Schools. 

Prior to his service to the residents of Franklin, Officer Cole served his Country; his 11 years in the United States Air Force included tours in Italy, Germany, and Saudi Arabia. 

Officer Cole and his wife of 17 years, Rebecca, have five children and 13 grandchildren. The Coles are 25-year members of the People’s Church in Franklin. Officer Cole has served 16 years as the Scoutmaster to Boy Scout Troop 16 at Epworth United Methodist Church, and has helped 21 youth to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest honor possible. 

Officer Cole recently accepted a job offer from Williamson County Sheriff Jeff Long. Starting Monday, Officer Cole will become Deputy Cole, and will continue his service to students and staff at Freedom Middle and Poplar Grove as their School Resource Officer. 

“I’ve enjoyed every adventure I’ve shared with the men and women of the Franklin Police Department over the past 25 years,” said Officer Cole. “I’m looking forward to continuing the great work that we’ve started at Freedom and Poplar Grove. I’ve got a unique opportunity to be able to show up at the same job I love, wearing a different uniform and driving a different colored car.” Chief David Rahinsky said, “Officer Cole’s selfless service to this community and our school system has impacted so many. I look forward to his continued service in Franklin schools and his continued commitment to Williamson County families.”