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Rangely swears in new officer; council hears staffing shortfalls and uncertainty about K9 program
Summary
Officer Darl Johnson was sworn in and welcomed; the council heard the police chief report staffing vacancies and concerns that the K9 Ty program may lapse without staffing or funding to maintain certification and care.
The council welcomed Officer Darl Johnson in a brief swearing-in ceremony, after which department leaders outlined staffing challenges and long-term uncertainty around the town's K9 program.
"I would like to thank everyone for the opportunity and honor for working," Johnson said after taking the oath, describing his prior law-enforcement experience and his family's move to Rangely. The council and attendees applauded as Johnson and his family were introduced.
Police leadership reported the department currently has open positions and that several officers have left for non-law-enforcement jobs, prompting active recruiting. The chief told the council the K9, Ty, had not undergone certification since December and that the town is "working against time" to either re-certify and retain the dog or make alternate arrangements if staffing and resources do not permit keeping the program.
The chief explained there were two contracts connected to the K9: one covering training costs the town paid and a second offering the handler a discounted purchase option after service; the handler chose not to exercise that purchase option. Officials said keeping the K9 depends on staffing, funding and the dog's certification timeline.
Council members did not take a vote on changes to the K9 program during the meeting; staff said they would continue recruitment and bring recommendations to future meetings.
