Vinton swears in four reserve officers after completing academy training

Four new reserve police officers were sworn in at the Vinton City Council meeting on April 10.

The mayor administered the oath of office and presented certificates from the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy to the officers, who said they completed academy training that began Jan. 1, 2024. Reserve training officer Casey Hazen praised the recruits’ efforts and noted recent changes in training delivery and testing. The new reserves introduced themselves: Blake Hansen said he works for the City of Vinton as a code enforcement officer and building inspector; Brandon Gagger said he works for DNS Sheet Metal in Cedar Rapids; Josh Meyer said he is a fourth-grade teacher at Tilford Elementary; and Matt Milburn identified himself as working for Per Security.

The council and attendees applauded the recruits as the mayor led them through the oath, promising to “faithfully and impartially to the best of my ability . . . perform the duties of police officer in the City of Vinton, Iowa as here required by law.” Staff said the reserves will support full-time officers at city events and help cover shifts when the department is short-staffed.

Reserve officers, when car-qualified, must complete about 120 hours of ride time and a final evaluation with supervising sergeants before operating independently, staff said. Council members and staff praised the reserves as an asset to public safety and community events. The council did not take formal action beyond the oath and certificates; the recruits were directed to receive their official paperwork following the ceremony.