South Russell council confirms three police appointments and swears in officers
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Summary
The South Russell Village Council confirmed two new patrol officers and one sergeant on March 16, swore them into office and voted unanimously to approve the appointments during its regular meeting.
South Russell Village Council confirmed three police personnel moves during its March 16 meeting, approving two patrol positions and one sergeant appointment and administering oaths of office.
The council moved to appoint Justin Kimery to a full‑time police officer position effective March 16, 2026, after a safety committee representative outlined Kimery’s U.S. Army service and his 2024 police academy graduation and subsequent work with the Timberlake Police Department. The motion to confirm passed on a voice vote.
Nicholas (Nick) DeMario was introduced as a candidate for a part‑time patrol position; council members noted his prior auxiliary work with the Lakewood Police Department and two years with Southwest General Police Department. Council confirmed DeMario’s appointment by voice vote; he was sworn in at the meeting.
The council also approved the mayor’s recommendation to appoint Julia Benning to the vacant sergeant position, effective April 1, 2026. Benning — introduced at the meeting as having more than 30 years of law enforcement experience and supervisory training — took the oath and was presented her sergeant appointment.
All three confirmations were approved by voice vote. The mayor and safety committee chair led the swearing‑in, and the council took photos of the newly appointed officers following the ceremony.
The council did not discuss additional personnel details such as salary steps or longevity at the meeting. The new officers will be assigned to the South Russell Police Department per the mayor’s appointments.
