by John Allgood
More than a third of Lexington’s 15 officer Police Department is retiring, or has retired, in less than two years. The string of retirements has spurred an on-going hiring campaign at the small-town station.
Two officers retired in April 2004, one in June 2005, and three more will retire before July 2006, said Police Chief Bruce M. Beard. The three recent retirees were quickly replaced and the department is actively seeking to replace Sgt. Richard Sutton, who will retire on Oct. 30, he said.
The department is considering 22 applicants for this newest opening. After this position is filled, the force will continue to hire officers as they are needed.
Chief Beard, who will retire June 30, 2006, said the spike in retirements was due to an aged police force.
Other imminent retirees agreed: “I’m
old,” said Sgt. Sutton. “There’s stuff I can’t do anymore,” Officer
Michael Hess said.
These officers have reached retirement age, said Lexington City Manager
Jon Ellestad.
Members of the department have been given the first opportunity to apply
for the position of police chief, Ellestad said. If there is no suitable
candidate within the department, Ellestad said he would look elsewhere.
Ellestad is seeking a chief who will maintain the status quo. “I’m not
looking for someone who is going to shake up the department,” he said.
Profiles of retiring policeman:
Produced by Washington and Lee journalism students.
Lead supervisor: Prof. Claudette Artwick
Reporting supervisor: Prof. Doug Cumming
Editing supervisor: Prof. Pamela Luecke
Technical supervisor: Michael Todd