POST investigators reported on Aug. 29 that multiple small law‑enforcement agencies had instances where uncertified or incompletely documented officers worked in a solo capacity or alongside part‑time staff who lacked required preemployment documentation.

Investigator Kevin Creed presented a report on Cowan/Calhoun-area concerns after reviewing body-camera footage and agency records. Creed found several instances in which a trainee (identified as Wendy "Skye" Stewart in records) worked with part-time officers; the chief corrected training and staffing practices after being informed of POST rules. Creed also verified that one part‑time officer later submitted missing preemployment records and has now met requirements.

Investigator Gary Cantrell reported on multiple small agencies, including Franklin, Jasper and South Pittsburgh, where reserve and part‑time deputies had incomplete preemployment or training records. Franklin County provided boxes of reserve-deputy records; Cantrell said the sheriff’s office recreated files and submitted updated preemployment materials within a 21‑day remediation window. Cantrell said most gaps had been corrected but recommended follow-up checks.

Commission action: The commission accepted the investigative reports and voted to direct investigators to conduct unannounced spot checks. Commissioners set timeframes: an unannounced three‑month return visit for Jasper and South Pittsburgh, and broader spot checks within six months for agencies with reserve-deputy record deficiencies.

Why it matters: Uncertified officers or incomplete preemployment records raise safety and liability concerns. The commission’s remedial orders aim to ensure all officers meet POST standards before operating solo or carrying out patrol duties.

Key findings and directives
- Calhoun/Cowan: Investigator Creed found several occasions where a trainee worked with part‑time officers; the department was informed and corrected procedures.
- Franklin County: Reserve-deputy records were incomplete; Franklin recreated files and procured missing medical/psychological clearances. Investigator Cantrell reported the agency expected to meet initial‑training documentation by year-end.
- Jasper and South Pittsburgh: Investigators found uncertified officers operating solo while on the same shift as a certified officer; commissioners voted for an unannounced three‑month follow-up.
- Commission directed investigators to conduct unannounced spot checks within six months for agencies with systemic reserve-deputy documentation issues.

Ending: Investigators will report back to the commission after their follow-up visits, and commissioners said they are considering rule changes to make reserve‑deputy registration mandatory to improve oversight.