Five new police officers were sworn in to the Erie Police Department today in City Council chambers at Erie City Hall.
The new officers are:
• Andrew Berger, 26. The Altoona native moved to Erie in 2015. He’s married and has a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice and a Master’s Degree in Criminalistics, both from Gannon University. Prior to joining the Erie Police Department, he worked for three years with Erie County Adult Probation and Parole.
• Beth Servidio, 44. An Erie native and McDowell High School graduate, Beth has a Criminal Justice degree from what is now Penn West – Edinboro. She has more than six years experience as a Pennsylvania State Patrol Agent with the Department of Corrections.
• Jose Montes, 34. Born in California, Jose has lived in Erie since 2012. He’s married and has one son. Previously, he worked at the Erie County Prison as a Correctional Officer, as an Erie County Deputy Sheriff and, most recently, as a School Resource Officer for the General McLane School District.
• Andrew Turi, 33. Born and raised in Erie, Andrew is a Strong Vincent High School graduate. He’s engaged to be married and has two daughters. He spent the last seven years working as a police officer for LECOM and the Millcreek Community Hospital.
• Troy Honard, 28. An Erie native, Troy is also a Strong Vincent High School graduate, and is also engaged. This is Troy’s first position in law enforcement.
During the ceremony, the Erie Police command staff recognized the new officers, and their new commitment to their community.
“Today is an exciting day for the three individuals on stage,” said Erie Police Inspector Christopher Janus, who led the recruitment team for the five new officers. “It is a milestone in their law enforcement career they will never forget. However, it is not the first milestone nor is it the last in their career. Law enforcement is not just a job, but a calling to serve and protect others. Each of these individuals answered that call.”
About 70 people attended the ceremony, including fellow officers, friends and family members.
Erie Police Chief Daniel Spizarny said the new officers need only to look to their family when preparing for their new responsibilities as peacekeeper, law enforcement officer and guardian.
It is a great responsibility you have chosen,” said Chief Spizarny in his remarks during the ceremony. “You will be expected to protect and serve the citizens of Erie in a courteous and professional manner, sometimes in the most difficult of circumstances.
“Look out at the family and friends here today. Let them be reminders of why you took this job. Remember that your desire to protect and defend your family is now your responsibility to the entire community. I suggest this: Treat everyone as you would want your family and friends to be treated.”
All five new officers graduated from Mercyhurst University’s Police Academy in North East, and began work today.
The Erie Police Department now has a compliment of 190 officers.
