Bellefontaine Police Department Chief Brandon Standley said the department marked a historic day Wednesday with two promotions of officers to the positions of lieutenant and sergeant, and the swearing in of a new police officer and auxiliary officer during a ceremony at the Bellefontaine High School Distance Learning Center.
Colleagues and family members had the chance to observe oaths of office for the four individuals, which includes newly promoted Lt. Scott Marlow, who has served with the department for 21 years. He already had started his lieutenant duties Wednesday morning, filling the position vacated upon the retirement of 30-year employee Lt. Rick Herring, effective June 1.
Lt. Scott Marlow also joins his brother, Chris Marlow, both serving in a lieutenant role. They were promoted to sergeant together in 2013.
“Now we’ll have to be specific which ‘Lt. Marlow’ we’re referring to,” Chief Standley said, noting the confusion that sometimes previously arose with the brothers’ shared sergeant titles.
A nine-year member of the department, Officer Seth Chambers was sworn in as a newly promoted sergeant and will assume the second-shift supervisor position, effective Sunday.
The agency’s newest police officer, Evan Standley, also was administered the oath of office. A son of Chief Standley and Bess Standley, he begins the Columbus Division of Police Training Academy June 14, and is expected to complete the course in early January.
After officially retiring Tuesday, former BPD Lt. Rick Herring didn’t waste any time in fulfilling his goal of becoming an auxiliary officer to serve the department. He was administered the oath of office for that position.
“His 30-year career ended one day ago, and now he’s already back here to continue his service,” Chief Standley said.
With the new additions and promotions, opportunity abounds both for the department and the surrounding community, the police chief said.
“It’s a big day for each of these guys and the community. We’re looking forward to watching each of them learn and grow, and the chance to make our agency even better.”