SFPS Chief Jodi Empey, file photo
Smiths Falls Police will be hiring at least one new cadet in 2024 with the potential for two.
The latest police services board meeting discussed the notion of bringing in more bodies to ensure they’re properly staffed as retirements and departures naturally occur.
According to its 2021-23 business plan, the SFPS have 19 constables, three sergeants, a staff sergeant and now an Acting Chief of Police in Jodi Empey.
Board member Jennifer Aunger-Ritchie said it’s a smart move to get prepared now.
Fellow board member Rob Dopson echoed her sentiments, saying they should ensure that as individuals leave the department, they’re not operating at a body-loss for too long.
Empey said she’ll begin recruiting right away so they’ll have a cadet ready to join them in April when their training is complete.
They’ll then look at bringing in a second new face in the fall should the need be there and if it fits in the 2024 budget.
Story by Grant Deme
