Honoring Tradition, Embracing the Future: Ketchum Unveils New Police Badge, Patch, and Patrol Vehicles

The City of Ketchum today unveiled the official badge, shoulder patch, and patrol vehicle design for its new Ketchum Police Department, giving residents their first look at the department's new visual identity ahead of its Aug. 3, 2026, launch. Beginning today, residents will start seeing the department's newly wrapped patrol vehicles throughout Ketchum. One of the new vehicles will make its public debut during Friday's Olympian & Paralympian Celebration, starting at 5:30 p.m. at Champions Meadow and concluding at Ketchum Town Square.  

The transition to a city-operated police department returns local law enforcement to direct city oversight, strengthening local accountability while ensuring uninterrupted public safety services. 

Developed in collaboration with Ketchum police officers and staff, the department's new insignia reflects the city's history, mountain setting, and commitment to community-focused policing. 

"Police badges and patches are symbols of service and trust," said Ketchum Mayor Pete Prekeges. "They represent both the community an officer serves and the responsibility carried while wearing the uniform. These designs honor Ketchum's heritage while reflecting the values that will guide our police department into the future." 

Honoring Ketchum’s History 
The badge draws on Ketchum’s law enforcement heritage, returning to the traditional six-point star used on early local badges. It also reintroduces the eagle and incorporates the city’s founding year, matching historic Ketchum Police badge designs.  

The shoulder patch, which also serves as the department’s official logo, features an eagle, Bald Mountain, the Big Wood River, and Ketchum’s natural scenery. Several shades of blue are predominantly used, representing the regions’ dark nights and bluebird skies, along with the department’s core values of trust, professionalism, and service. Together, the badge and patch create a clear visual identity rooted in place and history. 

Designed for Community Policing 
Police insignia serves as a visible link between officers and the public, helping residents and visitors quickly identify law enforcement. The design was shaped through input from officers and administrative staff to ensure it reflects both those who wear the uniform and the community they serve. Community feedback has consistently emphasized the importance of officers being visible, approachable, and engaged throughout Ketchum—an approach reflected in the department’s new identity. 

Vehicle Design and Visual Identity 
The also unveiled new patrol vehicle graphics and wraps as part of the department’s visual rollout. 

Looking Ahead 
The Ketchum Police Department will officially begin operations on Aug. 3, 2026. City leaders remain focused on ensuring a seamless transition with no interruption to police services. The new badge, patch, and patrol vehicles represent more than a new look—they symbolize Ketchum's commitment to local accountability, responsive public safety, and strong community partnerships. 

Additional information about the department, uniforms, equipment, and community engagement opportunities will be shared as the launch date approaches. 

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