TPD adds two new officers

Officer Kevin Tucker

Chief Tony Rusher announced that he has hired Kevin Tucker and Clint Ward to fill two of the three vacant slots at TPD.

Tucker, who started work on May 10, completed police academy training in 2008 and has been working as a police officer in Blytheville since 2007.

"Kevin actually lives just outside of the city limits on Oscar Road. So he's kind of a native," Rusher said. "He's been driving back and forth to Blytheville."

Tucker is also a member of the Arkansas National Guard.

Rusher said when he was conducting his background check Tucker's references all commented on his professionalism, neatness and his desire to make a career in law enforcement.

Officer Clint Ward

"I think that goes back to his military training," Rusher said. "He takes a lot of pride in his appearance. Everybody I talked to said although he doesn't have a lot of time in law enforcement, he has really shown that he has a desire and an interest."

Ward, who joined TPD on May 3, is originally from Mammoth Springs and worked for Jonesboro Police Department for six years.

He holds a bachelors degree from Arkansas State University in criminology.

"I think we're lucky to get Clint," Rusher said. "He's going to bring a lot of experience and training to our department."

Rusher said both officers are currently finishing up their two week orientation training which includes ride-along time with current officers. They should be in their own patrol cars soon.

"Although the laws are the same, each department has its own procedures," Rusher said. "This will give them time to learn how we do things before they go out on their own."

Rusher said he expects both officers to enjoy long and productive careers with TPD.

"I look for people who aren't just looking for a job, but have a real desire to work for Trumann Police Department," Rusher said. "We work for the public and we want them to be a part of the community and our police family here. They both have family here and applied because they want to live here."

The recent hiring now brings TPD to 14 sworn officers. Rusher said he still has one vacancy left to fill and has applied for a federal grant though the COPS FAST program in the stimulus bill.

The grant would pay the salary and benefits of the officer for three years, he said.

"Everything has been submitted," Rusher said. "I should know something later this year."

In a related matter, Rusher said he received five applicants -- all from inside the department -- for the assistant chief's position.

He hopes to fill that position in about two to three months.

"I'm getting pretty close but I am still thinking on it," Rusher said. "It will be in the next few months though because I really could use the help. The assistant chief basically is the direct link to the patrol division. It will take a lot off of me having to deal with the day-to-day and what they are doing on each shift."