09/28/2026
Lawson joins Burlington police force
The Burlington Police Department is pleased to introduce Officer Christopher Lawson, a lifelong member of the Burlington community who is serving his community as its newest officer.
Lawson grew up in Burlington and has lived in the area his entire life. Outside of work, he enjoys working on vehicles, spending time outdoors and playing video games. His interest in law enforcement began at an early age, influenced in part by his family. “Most of my family has a career in law enforcement, so it felt natural that I would as well,” Lawson said.
Before beginning his law enforcement career, Lawson attended school to become an automotive technician and earned his associate degree. While he continues to enjoy working on vehicles, he ultimately decided it was better suited as a hobby than a career.
Lawson has now been in law enforcement for four years and has been a certified officer for a little over three years. Before joining the Burlington Police Department, he worked for the Coffey County Sheriff’s Office, where he also served as a member of the department’s drone team.
For Lawson, the most rewarding part of law enforcement is having the opportunity to help people and make a meaningful difference in their lives. He also enjoys the variety that comes with the profession.
“Each day brings a new challenge and I never know what is going to happen,” Lawson said.
Coming to the Burlington Police Department was a natural fit for Lawson. His father worked for the department for much of his law enforcement career, and Lawson said he has enjoyed being part of the Burlington community and wanted to remain local.
As he begins this new chapter with the BPD, Lawson is particularly looking forward to working in a smaller jurisdiction and developing stronger relationships with the residents he serves.
One quality Lawson considers especially important in law enforcement is humility. He believes officers should hold themselves to a high standard while also holding themselves and others accountable for their actions. At the same time, he recognizes that officers are members of the same community they serve.
“At the end of the day, I am just a person no different than anyone else,” Lawson said.
One of Lawson's greatest influences has been his father, whom he considers his biggest role model both personally and as he has developed his own career in law enforcement.
As he looks ahead, Lawson has set high standards for himself. Personally, he strives to be the best version of himself he can be. Professionally, he aims to hold himself to a standard even higher than what is required of him.
For a lifelong Burlington resident, joining the Burlington Police Department represents more than simply beginning a new assignment. It is an opportunity for Lawson to continue serving the community he grew up in while building relationships with the people who call Burlington home.
If you see Officer Lawson out in the community, be sure to say hello and give him a warm welcome!
