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Council approves provisional hires of three reserve officers for Central Police Department
Summary
The council consolidated and approved provisional appointments for Harold Stansbury, John Norwood and Mel Sweet as reserve officers for the Central Police Department after staff presentations and public endorsements.
The City Council unanimously approved provisional hires for three reserve police officers — Harold Stansbury, John Norwood and Mel Sweet — after the chief and supporters described their qualifications.
Council voted to consolidate the three separate hire items into one motion and then approved them together. Council member Laverne moved to consolidate; Council member Lazaro seconded and the council recorded no opposition.
Police leadership summarized each candidate’s background. The chief described Harold Stansbury as a post-certified officer with recent service at the Baton Rouge Police Department, radar and LiDAR certification, and familiarity with the department’s report system; staff said Terracon (sic) had reviewed his reports and body-worn camera footage and supported hiring. Supporters introduced John Norwood as a retired Baton Rouge Police Department commander with 30 years of service, a part-time academy instructor and a graduate of the FBI National Academy; a public speaker recommended him and asked the council to approve his appointment. Mel Sweet received public endorsements noting long reserve-group service and traffic experience.
Why it matters: The hires increase reserve staffing for the Central Police Department, supplementing patrol and specialized duties. Council members praised the candidates’ experience and thanked them for volunteering.
What comes next: The hires are provisional; department staff will complete administrative onboarding and certification follow-up. The consolidated motion covered all three provisional hires and passed by roll call with all council members present voting yes.
