(8/24) Liberty Township Police Department’s new officer-in-charge is making changes to his force. Officer Terry DeWitt, who was hired last month, presented several motions to the supervisors during their August meeting and received unanimous support from the board.
DeWitt asked for new uniform patches at a total cost of $250. Supervisor Chairman Walter "Mickey" Barlow said the new patches resemble a design the department has used in the past.
The board also unanimously approved DeWitt’s recommendation to hire two part-time officers. Jonathan Harvey and Ryan Morris will be paid $23.92 per hour, Barlow said. DeWitt said he hopes to recruit additional part-time officers so all available shifts are covered.
Liberty Township Police Department also provides part-time coverage to Freedom and Highland Townships. DeWitt hopes to increase communication with residents by launching a department Facebook page. Officers will use the page to post educational materials and police blotters, DeWitt said.
He stressed the page will be a one-way communication tool so residents should not use it when they need police assistance. Residents should always call 9-1-1 when facing an emergency. On-duty officers needed for non-emergency situations can be reached by calling 717-334-8101.
DeWitt said public information is important, especially as scammers increasingly prey on vulnerable citizens. DeWitt advised citizens not to release personal information to unsolicited callers.
While citizens should ignore odd phone calls, they should pay extra attention to roadworkers directing traffic. Barlow said drivers have been ignoring signs and cursing at contracted workers. He asked DeWitt to increase patrols around construction zones and issue violations as appropriate.
"For our residents to act the way they did to these men who are out there trying to work is absolutely appalling," he said.
Liberty officers spent 94 of the 105.5 hours they worked in July on patrol, but once in a while they must sit in the station and complete paperwork. To help the officers be more comfortable, supervisors unanimously approved DeWitt’s request for two $99 office chairs. Barlow said it is difficult for officers to sit in the current chairs while wearing all necessary gear. Those chairs will be repurposed for the township meeting room.
DeWitt said he is applying for two grants through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency. One grant, if awarded, will pay for new in-car cameras. The other will help the department fund patrol costs associated with enforcing the state’s medical marijuana act.
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