A routine council meeting in Berlin on Dec. 15 took on a special significance as Mayor Rick Miller administered the oath of office to a new officer.
Angelo Ballestamon brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served in other law-enforcement agencies, according to Chief Michael Scheer, who added that Ballestamon’s background also includes Army service that can contribute to the skills he brings to the Berlin police.
The police department’s Lt. Joshua Smith explained some of the customary procedures for welcoming a new officer.
“Typically, once an officer had fulfilled the minimum qualifications to be a police officer, borough council adopts a resolution to hire, (and) the mayor will publicly swear the officer in as he or she takes the oath,” Smith said.
As for qaulifications considered when selecting a new officer, Smith emphasized the criteria taken into account by the department.
“Qualifications are diverse and unique,” he noted.
Smith highlighted other factors that go into hiring, such as prior police experience, a college degree, military status, and performance during the interview and background process. He also elaborated on the swearing-in process.
“Every officer who takes the oath … swears in with typically a loved one of their choice to hold the Bible,” the lieutenant related. “Following the oath, the new officer salutes the chief of police, who reciprocates the gesture. The new officer then proceeds to shake the hands of our governing body individually with gratitude.”
Scheer and members of his department extended gratitude to the mayor and council, underscoring their commitment to supporting the force.
