Maryville swears in first-ever auxiliary police officer

The Maryville Town Council on Feb. 25 formally swore in Lawrence Jones as the town's first auxiliary police officer, a ceremonial step officials said will expand the department's community outreach and canine program support.

Council President Bella and Police Chief Noussus introduced Jones at the start of the meeting and Clerk Treasurer January administered the oath. Secretary of Public Safety Jennifer Ruth Green traveled to the meeting and praised Jones’s background and his commitment to canine training. “We are better for you being an auxiliary officer,” Green said.

Town officials described Jones as already familiar with the department. Chief Noussus said Jones helped acquire and train K‑9 Yaga and that he will “work closely with us to amplify our story, ensuring that the public understands who we are, what we stand for, and how we serve our community.” The chief also credited Josh Perry of Baden K9 (Canada) with helping establish the town’s canine program.

Jones spoke briefly after the swearing-in, saying he studied criminal justice and is pursuing a degree in homeland security. “My job here is not to do anything different than your cops have already been doing on the street, but to help bring our communities together,” Jones said. He added he sees a role for the canine program in community healing and in giving children “heroes” to look up to.

Officials noted the role is auxiliary and presented it as an effort to strengthen ties between the department and residents rather than a change to patrol responsibilities. The council and speakers thanked First Tactical Uniform Company and Uniforms Direct for donating boots and a uniform for Jones.

The swearing-in was ceremonial; the council did not take a vote related to Jones’s appointment during the meeting. The administration said the auxiliary role will support existing police efforts and public engagement around the department’s canine program.