After being “handcuffed” with an officer shortage since June, the New Hampton Police Department began returning to full staff Monday.
NHPD was down one officer starting in June when that officer joined the Charles City Police Department. In late October, a second officer departed to join the Chickasaw County Sheriff’s Office.
However, in November, Chief Zach Nosbisch announced the hiring of two new officers with Nick Sylvester officially starting Monday (12.05) and Austin Hageman starting a week later on December 12th, both who will be eased into active duty.
Nosbisch says it’ll likely be late next spring when Sylvester and Hageman go through the regional academy together, which makes it more cost efficient for the department.
Nosbisch adds that until Sylvester and Hageman become certified, having the additional help is a great safety feature this time of year.
Nosbisch also praises the officers who have been on staff during their shorthanded period for going above and beyond to protect the citizens of New Hampton.
