Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Safety topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Morristown swears in four officers and launches 'Operation Blue Angel' for seniors
Summary
Morristown swore in four new patrol officers Dec. 10 and the police department unveiled "Operation Blue Angel," a registry and keyed lockbox program to help first responders access seniors and people with disabilities in emergencies.
Morristown on Dec. 10 swore in four new patrol officers and announced Operation Blue Angel, a community outreach program aimed at helping seniors and residents with disabilities during emergencies.
Chief Richardson introduced Officer Gavurin, Officer Riley, Officer Starnes and Officer Ramirez and administered the oath of office before the Town Council. The council amended its agenda to hold the swearing ceremony early in the meeting and adopted that change by voice vote.
Lieutenant Chris Oakley, who leads the police department's community engagement unit, described Operation Blue Angel as a simple registry and lockbox program. "What we're gonna do is have people that are eligible for the program being over 55 or differently abled ... we'll have them on the registry and we'll provide them with one of these lockboxes," Oakley said, adding that only Morristown police and first responders will have access to the unique code. He said the goal is to save seconds in emergencies by avoiding property damage to gain entry and to give families peace of mind.
Oakley said eligible residents may contact the community engagement unit at 292-6631 or look for details on the town website and at senior services. The department said information also will be available at senior-center events.
The council and police thanked the officers and their families at the ceremony. No formal action beyond the agenda amendment and ceremonial oath was taken.
