By Rick Palsgrove
Groveport Editor
The Groveport Police Department could temporarily expand to offset anticipated retirements.
“With upcoming retirements within our police department staff, Police Chief Casey Adams has requested a temporary expansion of staffing,” said Groveport City Administrator B.J. King.
Groveport City Council is considering legislation to add one permanent full time officer and three additional officers for a temporary period.
“This is a good approach to continue service and coverage to the community,” said King.
The action would increase the police staff to 27, which includes a chief, captain, lieutenants, sergeants, detectives, school resource officer, a patrol operations liaison, and patrol officers.
According to the legislation, the temporary increase in police staff would be needed until June 30, 2023 to address the anticipated reductions of officers due to impending retirements. At that point the police staff would consist of 24 officers.
Earlier this year Adams said, law enforcement agencies everywhere are “losing officers at an alarming pace and unfortunately Groveport has not been immune from this wave of retirements.”
In 2021, he said Groveport Police lost three key members to retirement: Chief Ralph Portier, Sgt. Brian Thompson, and Sgt. Lou Chan, who among them had more than 80 years of experience.
Adams said in 2023 and 2024 the Groveport Police have four officers who are eligible to retire after serving for at least 25 years.
In 2023, if those who are eligible to retire do so, the department could lose anywhere from 25 to 75 years of experience. Adams said this experience ranges from criminal investigative work to senior leadership.
“We want individuals with a strong work ethic, high moral character, strong communication skills, and who enjoy being part of the community policing philosophy that is the foundation of the department and is expected from the community,” said Adams.
