Two City of Harrison Police Department employees have retired, taking with them 52 years of combined experience and the American flags that flew over police headquarters on their last day of work. They also take many memories and well wishes from their colleagues.
Teri Hannon began working for the City in 1995 as a receptionist at the Harrison Community Center. In 2008, she took a role as second-shift clerk for the police department. The hours made it possible for her to care for her granddaughter during the day.
In fact, Hannon has been juggling her free time among helping her son, daughter and four grandchildren for years. Since officially retiring at the end of February, she has more time to devote to her family.
Barb Chetwood was already a working mom when she was intrigued by a newspaper ad for a police clerk. She began her police department career in 1997, which she said has been interesting and rewarding.
As the first shift clerk, Chetwood had the opportunity to help detectives with online investigations, such as recovering stolen property. On the day that sticks out in her mind, a homeless mother walked into the station with her two children to seek shelter. Chetwood and the officers on duty chipped in to put them in a hotel until family members from Tennessee could arrive and help.
Chetwood is also a devoted grandma and since she retired in January, she is spending much of her time with her three children and four grandchildren.
The Harrison Police Department preserves the peace, responds to law enforcement service requests and protects life and property within the City limits. Police officers are available 24 hours a day, seven days per week to respond to calls for service, prevention of crimes, investigate criminal activity, apprehend suspects, investigate traffic accidents, and provide animal services. Officers conduct special investigations, crime analysis, effective records and evidence management and storage. The Department employs 20 full-time sworn officers and two police clerks. All City positions are filled by candidates who have successfully completed the Civil Service exam.
Pictured (left to right): Harrison Mayor Bill Neyer, Barb Chetwood, Teri Hannon, Police Chief Charles Lindsey