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HANOVER TWP. — The Hanover Township Police Department has seen two new officers sworn in over the last two months, with the addition of Officer David McDermott to the staff.

McDermott officially started duty as an officer on July 29, bringing the total number of officers serving in Hanover to 18.

This comes after Shawn McCole was sworn in and started duty on July 1.

According to Hanover Township police chief Al Walker, the two officers were brought in technically as new positions to be filled, but acknowledged that the positions were created as a result of two officers being injured and working in an off-duty capacity. It is unknown when the two officers will return to active duty, or if they will return at all. As the amount of calls coming in to the police department grows in size, so does the need for two officers, which is why McCole and McDermott were brought in.

“Call value is always increasing, so the board saw fit to help us out and provide us with some relief,” Walker said.

Traditionally, the Hanover Township Police Department carries anywhere from 16 to 17 officers, so the addition of the two new officers has the township in a good position staff-wise. Still, Chief Walker maintains that, while at full strength, the department won’t be limiting itself in terms of personnel anytime soon.

“Any chief you talk to would be hesitant to say that they have enough officers, because you could never have enough,” Walker said.

New police Officer Dylan McDermott is seen surrounded by members of his family and the Hanover Township police board.
https://www.timesleader.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/web1_Hanover.jpg.optimal.jpgNew police Officer Dylan McDermott is seen surrounded by members of his family and the Hanover Township police board. Hanover Twp. has added two new police officers

By Kevin Carroll

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Reach Kevin Carroll at 570-954-8360 or on Twitter @TLKevinCarroll