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The Columbia Police Department was officially established by a Mayor/Alderman form of government on June 13, 1883. This police department was made up of a Town Marshal and two officers. The first Town Marshal was R. H. Guest. In 1899, John Latta was appointed Town marshal or Chief of Police. Latta also had the distinction of appointment as the City of Columbia's first Fire Chief on May 29, 1901. The Columbia Police Department was made up of a six member team by April 4, 1901. Two of the members of the police department were paid by the railroad, since Depot Street was the roughest part of the City of Columbia during this period. The first policy enacted for the Police Department is found in the minutes of the Mayor and Alderman Meeting on October 13, 1902. This stated that no police officer shall consume any alcoholic drink or beverage during the performance of his duties. Men who have served as Chief of Police since the department's organization in 1883 are: R. H. Guest, 1883-1899; John Latta, 1899-1904; Love Webb, 1904-1908; C. C. Morgan, 1908-1910; T. E. Morgan, 1910-1912; T. L. McLean, 1912-1920; Bailey Peyton, 1920-1938; Walter Griffin, 1938-1950; Emmitt P. Fox, 1950-1971; Luther H. Harris, Jr., 1971-1975; Edward L. Holton, 1975-1986; Luther H. Harris, Jr., 1986-1987; Edward L. Holton, 1987-1988; James B. Boyd, Jr., 1988-2001 Barry Crotzer 2001-present. The purpose of the Columbia Police Department is to protect life and property, prevent crime, preserve the peace and enforce all laws and ordinances within the confines of its jurisdiction. Throughout the coming years, the Columbia Police Department will devote itself to its mission and be ever mindful of the fact that the men and women who make up this agency are part of this community, NOT apart from it.