Board of Public Safety approves two new Anderson police officers; officers sworn in

The Anderson Board of Public Safety on Oct. 13 approved hiring two new officers for the Anderson Police Department and administered the oath of office.

The hires bring Lucas Cox, 22, and Kobe Smith, 26, onto the department. Mayor (name not specified in record) introduced the candidates and offered thanks to their families, saying, "I'd like to thank both of you for joining our, department. I think you'll find Anderson Police Department being exceptional department with a lot of great folks." Chief Mike Lee formally presented the candidates to the board, stating their ages, local ties and background: "First, we have Lucas Cox. Lucas is 22 years old and is a graduate of Franklin High School and is still a resident in the area. And we have Kobe Smith. Kobe is 26. He is a lateral. That's coming to us from IMPD. And, Kobe is married and dog father."

The board moved and seconded the hire, and the vote was recorded as affirmative. After the vote, the city clerk administered the oath of office; the clerk led the officers through the sworn statement, beginning, "I do solemnly swear. That I will support and defend..." The board then directed customary ceremonial remarks and a brief reception.

Why it matters: The new hires add staff to the Anderson Police Department at a time the board described as seeking to maintain public safety and community policing capacity. The board recorded no additional conditions tied to these hires during the meeting.

What happened next: The board returned to its regular agenda after the swearing-in, approving minutes and several financial items later in the meeting.

Notes: The meeting transcript does not record the full names of the mayor or the city clerk; quoted remarks are attributed to the mayor and Chief Mike Lee exactly as they appear in the meeting record.