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Cheverly swears in three police officers; chief outlines staffing, recent arrest and proposed live‑scan fee
Summary
Cheverly on Oct. 10 swore in three new police officers and heard a report from Chief Morris detailing staffing levels, a vehicle stop tied to a suspected auto‑theft and drug recovery, and proposals to set live‑scan fingerprint fees and extend equipment contracts.
Mayor called the meeting to order Oct. 10 and the council swore in three new police officers before the public‑safety portion of the agenda.
Chief Morris told the council the hires are part of an effort to restore 24/7 service. “We continue our recruitment efforts to diversify our agency,” he said, and later added, “We’re fairly confident that Cheverly’s future is looking very bright.” Morris said the department has 11 officers on the road and two in the academy, with additional applicants in various stages of background checks.
Morris summarized a recent traffic stop that the department tied to a suspected auto‑theft and identity‑theft ring. Officers recovered a large quantity of suspected fentanyl, ecstasy and crystal meth from the vehicle; Morris said warrants are pending and an investigation is ongoing in collaboration with Prince George’s County units.
During the report the chief asked council to review an attachment proposing a modest administrative markup on the state live‑scan fingerprinting charge; he said the proposed fee schedule adds about a 5% administrative fee and asked council to consider the item at the upcoming work session. Morris also told the council staff will bring proposals to the work session for upfitting patrol cars with Motorola radios and for a five‑year extension of Axon body‑worn and in‑car camera contracts.
Three officers repeated the oath as they were sworn in. Officer Christopher Becker identified himself by name during the ceremony. Family members and council members joined the new officers for photographs after the swearing.
Chief Morris closed by asking council for any questions about staffing or community events; he highlighted the department’s participation in a Public Safety Day event the following day and invited council and residents to attend. No formal action on live‑scan fees or contract renewals was taken that night; staff will return with details for council consideration at the work session.
