Village of Hartland swears in three police promotions and a new officer

The Village of Hartland administered oaths to three police officers — a new deputy chief, a newly promoted lieutenant and a patrol officer — at the start of its board meeting. The ceremony preceded the board's regular business and included family members and brief remarks.

Chief Corey Misco, identified in the meeting as chief of the Hartland Police Department, introduced the promotions and new hire and said the department had conducted a recruitment and training program that led to the appointments. "We have 3 swearing ins today," Chief Misco said.

Brian DeBarge was sworn in as deputy chief. According to remarks during the ceremony, DeBarge served with the department for about 13 years and had been a lieutenant for more than seven years before promotion. The oath was administered by Village President Fanner; DeBarge told those assembled, "Thanks everyone for coming out tonight. I appreciate the support and, your continued support and I look forward to many years' continued surgical support." The remark appeared as spoken in the meeting transcript.

Lieutenant Joseph Southern (introduced by the chief as the department's newly selected lieutenant) took the oath after an introduction that included his prior service. The meeting record shows Southern joined Hartland from a university police department and was placed in charge of the late or third shift patrol. Nicholas Hendrickson, described by the chief as a patrol officer with more than 15 years of experience with the Waukesha Police Department, also took the oath and was welcomed by the board.

The board paused for a brief reception after the ceremony; refreshments were offered at the library event space, and the chief invited visitors to meet department members. No formal board votes or ordinance changes were associated with the swearing-in ceremony.