WEST CHESTER, PA — The Chester County Sheriff’s Office marked a milestone week with a Swearing-In, Promotion, and Retirement Ceremony at the Chester County Justice Center, celebrating significant achievements and transitions within the department. The event emphasized the Office’s dedication to public safety and professional growth.
Sheriff Kevin Dykes presided over the ceremony, swearing in five new deputies who are joining the force. The newly inducted members include Lawrence Pierce, Elisha Stigora, Joshua Strickland, Angelo Torres, and Rodney Urquhart. Deputy Alison Moyer, another recent academy graduate, is expected to take her oath at a later date. Additionally, two K-9 teams—Sergeant Josh Sharp and K-9 Nugget, along with Corporal Conor Lesch and K-9 Banks—were formally introduced as special deputies, bringing specialized enforcement capabilities to the Office.
The event also highlighted the promotion of Sergeant John McCray to Lieutenant. With his extensive experience, Lieutenant McCray will now oversee the Office’s Criminal Division, a key component of law enforcement operations focused on investigations and public safety enforcement.
A bittersweet moment came as a K-9 member of the team was officially retired, receiving recognition for its service and contribution to the Chester County community.
These milestones follow the Chester County District Attorney’s Office’s recent commendation of the Sheriff’s Office. The recognition praised the Office’s efforts to maintain security at the Chester County Justice Center and its successful 2024 hiring campaign, which resulted in 42 new staff members, encompassing both sworn officers and civilian personnel.
The hiring initiative was a response to recruitment challenges faced by law enforcement agencies nationwide. It included expanded community outreach, innovative social media strategies, and a staff referral program aimed at attracting a diverse and dedicated pool of candidates. Sheriff Dykes underscored the importance of these efforts, stating, “Our investment in people is about more than filling positions – it’s about building a highly trained and dedicated agency that serves Chester County with integrity.”
With a focus on mentorship, training, and professional development, the Chester County Sheriff’s Office continues to lead by example, fostering a workforce committed to protecting and serving its community. Looking forward, Sheriff Dykes reaffirmed the Office remains steadfast in addressing modern challenges with proactive solutions, ensuring public safety remains a top priority.
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