Officer Ryan Behnken takes oath as Haberty Grace police officer

The Havre de Grace City Council meeting on May 5, 2025, featured a significant moment as Officer Ryan Behnken was sworn in as a new member of the Havre de Grace Police Department. The meeting highlighted Behnken's journey to law enforcement, including his background and experiences during his training at the police academy.

Officer Behnken, who is 42 years old, shared that his interest in law enforcement was influenced by his father, a retired NYPD detective. He expressed gratitude to his family for their support during his 33 weeks of training, acknowledging the sacrifices they made during this period. Behnken's path to becoming a police officer began with a conversation with Chief Walters, who encouraged him to pursue a full-time career in law enforcement while balancing his financial planning work.

During the meeting, Behnken proudly noted that he graduated as valedictorian of his class, emphasizing his determination to succeed despite being older than many of his peers. The council members expressed their excitement about his appointment and congratulated him on his achievements.

The swearing-in ceremony included Behnken taking an oath to uphold the Constitution of the United States and the laws of Maryland, committing to serve the City of Havre de Grace to the best of his abilities. His family joined him on stage for this important moment, marking a new chapter in his career and a commitment to the community.

This event underscores the city's ongoing efforts to strengthen its police force and engage with community members, reflecting a commitment to public safety and service.