Five new police officers were sworn into the Erie Police Department today in City Council chambers at Erie City Hall. The new officers are:
- Mitchell Boetcher, age 29
- Charles Buszek, age 45
- Kyle Krebs, age 24
- Kyle Carter, age 26
- Alex Pearson, age 33
During the ceremony, the Erie Police command staff recognized the new officers who are replacing officers who have retired. “Today is an exciting day for these officers,” 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 their last. Law Enforcement is not just a job, but a calling to serve and protect others. Each of these individuals answered that call.”
Fellow officers, friends, and family members packed City Council chambers for the ceremony. Mayor Joe Schember congratulated the new officers and said, “You are joining an extremely talented and dedicated department with a long history of service to the citizens of Erie. You are very much appreciated by not only me, but by all the people who live, work, and visit our great city.” The City of Erie Police Department was established in 1851 and has been in existence for over 170 years.
Erie Police Chief Daniel Spizarny said the new officers need only to look at their families when preparing for their new responsibilities as peacekeepers, law enforcement officers, and guardians. “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 them 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.”
