By: Renea Kessler
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
The West Unity Police Department has had an increase in traffic warnings and citation violations but a decrease in officer investigation incidents over the past year.
There has also been an increase in the amount of traffic on roadways since things have returned to normal after COVID.
Chief J.R. Jones explained that the community dynamic in West Unity has remained relatively the same and that there has been an increase in the amount of training hours officers have been given over the past two years.
With that increase, the officers at the department will complete a minimum of twenty-four hours, along with any additional training that will benefit the community and police department.
Manpower at the West Unity Police Department is decent compared to other agencies that are struggling as of late due to the current climate.
There are six full-time officers and five part-time officers, with two of the full-time officers serving as School Resource Officers who split their time between the department and Hilltop School during the school year.
The department recently sent one of their own officers to the Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy where they took a course in Semi-Auto Pistol Instructor.
This course allows the officer to be able to do annual firearm qualifications for the department. West Unity is also looking to develop the position further to ensure all their officers are getting the most updated and continued training to ensure they are serving their community in the safest way possible.
West Unity Police Chief Jones believes that the biggest difference between his department and others is the respect and appreciation seen mutually between the officers and the people in the community.
When asked what law enforcement means to him Chief Jones responded with, “I believe law enforcement is serving the individuals in the community in any way that will resolve a conflict in hopes that it will improve the situation for those involved.”
“Law enforcement isn’t all about issuing citations for traffic violations and charging individuals who committed a crime.”
“Often times we get calls for service outside of that capacity, and in those situations, I do my best to assist citizens in our community.”
Lastly, Chief Jones would like people reading this to know that he feels his officers work in a community where law enforcement officers are appreciated.
He would like to thank the citizens of West Unity for their support and willingness to work with the department to keep the community safe.
He is fortunate to have a mayor and council that supports the police department and provides them with the necessary means to serve the community best.
Renea can be reached at
renea@thevillagereporter.com