Leadership
The Police Foundation of Terre Haute is guided by a dedicated Board of Directors comprised of community leaders, business professionals, public safety advocates, and individuals committed to strengthening public safety and enhancing the quality of life in our community.
Our board provides strategic direction, governance, and stewardship of the Foundation’s mission and resources. Together, these leaders bring diverse experience from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors, united by a shared commitment to supporting the Terre Haute Police Department and fostering strong partnerships between law enforcement and the community.
The Foundation operates independently and is governed by volunteers who are passionate about investing in programs, initiatives, and opportunities that improve public safety, support officer wellness and professional development, and strengthen community engagement.
Board of Directors
Kevin Barrett
Chairman
Chief Kevin Barrett brings more than 32 years of law enforcement experience with the Terre Haute Police Department and currently serves as Chief of Police. His career has included leadership roles across Patrol, Criminal Investigations, and Special Services, giving him a broad perspective on the Department’s operations and the public safety needs of the Terre Haute community.
As Chief of Police, Barrett has focused on building strong teams, fostering collaboration among law enforcement agencies and community stakeholders, and advancing initiatives that strengthen the Department and its ability to serve the public. His approach to leadership emphasizes accountability, innovation, professionalism, and strong community partnerships.
Chief Barrett also serves as Chairman of the Police Foundation of Terre Haute, where he works to build connections between law enforcement, community members, and the private sector. Through the Foundation, he supports efforts to provide officers with resources and opportunities that enhance public safety and strengthen the Department’s service to the community.
Matthew Rains
Vice Chairman
Assistant Chief Matthew Rains brings 19 years of law enforcement experience with the Terre Haute Police Department and currently oversees the Department’s Criminal Investigations Division. He holds a bachelor’s degree in criminology from Indiana State University and spent 12 years serving in the Patrol Division before advancing into supervisory and command roles.
Rains has led units responsible for Property Crimes, Arson, Violent Crimes, and the Drug Task Force. He has also served as Commander of the Terre Haute Police Department’s SWAT Team, bringing experience in both complex criminal investigations and specialized police operations to his current role.
As Assistant Chief, Rains is focused on advancing innovative policing strategies, leveraging technology to strengthen criminal investigations, and deploying resources effectively to enhance public safety. He works to ensure the Department continues to evolve its investigative capabilities while providing effective, responsive service to the Terre Haute community.
Jeremy Sparks
Secretary
Assistant Chief Jeremy Sparks is a 27-year veteran of the Terre Haute Police Department and currently serves as Chief of the Department’s Operations Division. Throughout his career, he has served in a variety of roles, including Patrolman, Detective, Patrol Sergeant, and Training Coordinator, providing him with extensive experience in both frontline policing and officer development.
In his leadership roles, Assistant Chief Sparks has remained focused on supporting the officers responsible for serving the Terre Haute community and ensuring they are prepared to meet the evolving demands of modern policing.
As Assistant Chief, Sparks is committed to providing patrol officers with the training, equipment, resources, and leadership necessary to perform their duties safely and effectively. He emphasizes professionalism, accountability, and continuous development while working to ensure officers are well prepared to serve the community with integrity and excellence.
Brandon Sakbun
Treasurer
Mayor Brandon Sakbun is a lifelong Terre Haute resident who serves as the city’s Mayor, leading efforts to strengthen public safety, economic development, and quality of life throughout the community. Prior to his service as Mayor, he served as an officer in the U.S. Army’s elite 75th Ranger Regiment, where he developed the leadership, discipline, and commitment to service that continue to guide his work today. Since taking office, Mayor Sakbun has focused on modernizing city services, investing in infrastructure, and building strong partnerships that support a safer, stronger, and more vibrant Terre Haute.