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Liberty starting reserve police program
By danny restivo
liberty
Residents may see some different faces among the police ranks, as the township is searching for candidates to fill its new reserve program.
“These officers will have the same jurisdiction as our other officers,” said Chief Richard J. Tisone.
The program will allow qualified candidates to serve the community alongside regular officers, while gaining valuable experience for future positions, said Tisone.
He said the reservists will not be paid, but the experience they get will enhance their careers. Tisone said many officers are involved in similar programs when starting the profession.
“It’s something we’ve all done,” said Tisone.
Interested candidates must have graduated from an Ohio peace-officer training academy and be willing to work at least 24 hours a month. The township is looking at hiring four or five reservists, he said.
Though trustees began looking at recruiting reservists a year ago, they approved an ordinance to start the program during a meeting Monday.
Pat Ungaro, township administrator, said the program will improve police presence without straining the township’s budget.
In November, voters defeated a levy that would have generated $96,000 a year for the township.
The failure resulted in a $75,000 cut from the police budget. Ungaro said the township was hoping to hire a new officer with the levy’s revenue.
Tisone said the department’s staff has dwindled from 24 officers in 2007 to 16. He said the township’s financial situation has dictated some of the reduction.
He said candidates must pay for certain equipment, but the department will assist in any way possible. Tisone said reserve officers will have the same liability coverage as other officers, as well as the same arresting powers.
The program will not interfere with the department’s staffing protocol, Tisone said.
The department has a minimum of two officers per shift, but the reservists are not to work in lieu of those officers, he said.
“Its good for the community and the taxpayers,” Tisone said.
Interested candidates can drop off a resume at the township administration building, 1315 Church Hill-Hubbard Road, or call 330-759-1315 for information.