Minot police swear in two lateral transfers, chief and mayor praise experience

Madison Lehner and Gregory Al McGraw were sworn in as lateral transfers to the Minot Police Department at a brief ceremony in Minot; the police chief and Mayor Janser said the officers bring experience that will strengthen the department.

The police chief opened the ceremony, welcomed attendees and said the oath marks “a continuation” of service for the new officers rather than the start of their careers. “Both bring valuable experience, proven professionalism, and a strong commitment to service,” the police chief said, asking the community to support the officers and their families.

Chaplain Jeff Byers delivered an invocation, praying for the safety, wisdom and protection of the two officers and for the department. “We pray that you would just bless them and you protect them when they're out and about,” Byers said.

Mayor Janser administered the oath of office and led the officers in the pledge to support the U.S. and state constitutions and the ordinances of the city of Minot. A municipal oath was recited as part of the ceremony; the transcript contains a misspoken municipal name that has been corrected to Minot in this report.

After the oath, command staff performed a badge-pinning portion and family members were invited forward for photographs. The police chief closed by thanking family, team members and the public for their support of law enforcement personnel.

The transcript does not specify the ceremony date or certain staff names beyond those quoted; attendees were invited to take photos with the newly sworn officers after the formal remarks concluded.