EUNICE - Bart L. Thibodeaux withdrew Thursday from the Eunice chief of police race after being advised his candidacy was not permitted under provisions of the Hatch Act.

Thibodeaux is an employee of the U.S. Immigration Customs Enforcement Division who is nearing retirement eligibility

Prior to qualifying last week to run in the Oct. 2 primary, he had received assurances from his employer that doing so was permissible under provisions of the federal classified service.

He learned differently this week when ICE personnel looked further into the matter, he said.

“It is with great sadness and a heavy heart that I must withdraw from the Chief of Police race,” Thibodeau said.

“I must consider the needs of my family rather than my wants. I thank my family and all supporters for their consideration of me as chief of police,” he said.

Thibodeaux’s withdrawal leaves five men in the race to succeed Chief Gary Fontenot, who is not seeking another term.

Thibodeaux said his campaign yard signs around the city will be picked up by week’s end “unless you would like to use them for something else, or you could hold on to them for four years.”

His closing remarks indicate he may very well be a candidate in 2014. “Thanks again, God bless, see you in four,” he said.(Eunice News)