2011 American Legion Post 16 Officer of the Year
On January 28, 2012, Lt. David Sigmon was honored as the 2011 American Legion Post 16 Officer of the Year for Outstanding Service to the Community. The award was presented to Lt. Sigmon by the Post Commander following a meal prepared and served by the Auxiliary Unit Post 16. Lt. Sigmon was nominated for this award by his co-workers at the Newton Police Department who were in attendance for this honor. Lt. Sigmon has been employed with the Newton Police Department since October 1990 and currently serves as shift commander for “B” Platoon. Lt. Sigmon has previously served as patrol sergeant, K-9 sergeant handling his late partner Sawyer, community policing sergeant, and patrol officer.
Officer Injured
As many local residents may know, Ms. Evaleene Fowler, Parking Enforcement Officer, was recently struck by a car while on duty. Ms. Fowler was transported to a local hospital where she was treated and released. Ms. Fowler is at home and resting comfortably. Thank you to the highly trained and skilled personnel of the City of Newton Fire Department and Catawba County EMS for your rapid response and treatment of Ms. Fowler. The Newton Police Department looks forward to Ms. Fowler's recovery and return to duty.
Captains Promoted
The Newton Police Department has two new Captains in charge of departmental operations. On Tuesday 10-04-2011 Chief Don Brown II announced the promotion of Lt. Mike Sullivan and Lt. Tim Hayes to the rank of Captain becoming effective Monday 10-10-2011. The promotions are part of a restructuring process for the entire department.
Captain Sullivan has been with the Newton Police Department since March 1988 and has served in many different positions. During his years of service, Captain Sullivan has served as Patrol Officer, Patrol Sergeant, Community Policing Sergeant, Community Policing Lieutenant, Road Patrol Lieutenant, Investigations Lieutenant and Narcotics Lieutenant. In his new assignment, Captain Sullivan will serve as Division Commander for Road Patrol, Criminal Investigations and Narcotics.
Captain Hayes has been with the Newton Police Department since January 1993 and has also served in various divisions. Captain Hayes started his career as a Patrol Officer, Community Policing Officer, Traffic Officer, Patrol Sergeant, Investigations Sergeant, Patrol Lieutenant and Support Services Lieutenant. In his new assignment, Captain Hayes will serve as Division Commander for Support Services, Fleet Maintenance and Facility Maintenance.
Both Captain Sullivan and Captain Hayes will report directly to Major Yarborough.
Runners Hit The Streets
On October 8, 2011, four officers from “C” Platoon participated in the Oktoberfest 5k in Hickory. Those participating in the run were (from left to right) Mst. Brian Bixby, Ptl. John Stone, Ptl. Jason Hill, and Sgt. Dan Harris. These same officers have recently participated in other running events in the area. On August 27, Sgt. Harris, Mst. Bixby and Ptl. Hill participated in the Hickory Christian Academy 5k. On August 20, Mst. Bixby also participated in the Soldiers Reunion 5k. This is yet another example of how our officers work together and train together to form a cohesive bond.
Booker Hits The Halls
The Newton Police Department's newest employee recently reported for duty at Newton-Conover High School. Students were surprised to see their newest schoolmate Booker, a 1 ½ year old German Shepherd. Booker was acquired during the summer and has been in training with his handler and new School Resource Officer Ptl. Jeff Longstreet. Booker will be permanently assigned to the high school with Ptl. Longstreet. Booker’s duties will be patrolling the hallways, checking lockers, and patrolling the parking lot, among other things.
NO PARKING
New NO PARKING guidelines are now in effect for North Deal Ave from West 15th Street to West 16th Street. The parking restrictions will be on school days only from 7:00 am to 9:00 am and from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm. The parking restrictions will be applicable to both sides of the street. This restriction became effective August 24, 2011.