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Wyoming swears in two police officers, department returns to full staffing
Summary
The City of Wyoming ceremonially swore in Officer Rebecca Peterson and Officer Joseph Vang on Jan. 20, returning the police department to full staffing for the first time in more than two years, officials said.
The City of Wyoming swore in Officer Rebecca Peterson and Officer Joseph Vang at the Jan. 20 City Council meeting, returning the Wyoming Police Department to full staffing for the first time in more than two years.
Chief Auer told the council the department had been “down 1 to 2 people for the last 2 years plus,” and said the hires came after “numerous” interviews. “This will be the first time in 2 plus years that we've been fully staffed with officers, so it's a big night,” Chief Auer said.
The chief outlined departmental priorities during the ceremony. “The police department provides a data driven crime prevention strategies, equitable enforcement of laws, exhaustive investigation of crimes, proficient emergency response, and authentic community outreach to ensure the safety of all Wyoming community members,” Chief Auer said, describing the department's emphasis on collaboration and ongoing training.
Officer Rebecca Peterson has served as a reserve officer and reserve cadet in Wyoming for several years, the chief said. Peterson holds a degree in early childhood education and a degree in theater and has security experience through volunteer roles. Officer Joseph Vang previously worked as a community service officer for the city of Blaine, served a deployment in Baghdad, Iraq, and has a degree in law enforcement; the chief said Vang is fluent in English and Hmong.
Mayor Iverson administered the oath of office. Deputy Marcy Wacker pinned Officer Peterson's badge; Joseph Vang's badge was pinned by his wife, Anna Vang. Council members and the chief thanked family and training mentors in brief remarks.
The swearing-in was ceremonial and carried out at the meeting; council did not take a formal vote on the appointments during the public portion of the record.
Council members later thanked the chief for staffing work at the end of the meeting. Member Yaeger said the council and community “really appreciate” Chief Auer’s work to reach full staffing.
