Sedalia Police Department Sees Signs of Community Support

Sedalia Police Commander Larry Ward says the department has received an outpouring of community support lately, in view of recent national events.

"Right now, more than ever, the community has rallied behind our public safety folks (police ambulance, fire) just a tremendous show of support," Ward said. "It's bad that it took these events to get folks to rally as they have, but it's greatly appreciated .. we are surely grateful to everyone that showed their support for the police department and all of our public safety (officials)."

Ward noted that he had people come up to him five times this morning and shake his hand and thank him for the service that he and his officers provide to the Sedalia community. "This community definitely has our back. And again, we're just extremely humbled and grateful for what we've seen," Ward said.

Recruiting has been a problem for the department recently, but that situation has not been unique to Sedalia, Ward noted. When he applied, there were between 80 and 100 applicants for one opening. At the most recent testing event, there were three applicants who showed up for two available positions. "It's an important profession, it's not just a job," he said.

To offer your support, go to the Sedalia Police Department's Facebook page. To learn more about applying at the department, call 826-8100. A testing event is scheduled for Oct. 1, Commander Ward said. Or go to the City of Sedalia's website and click on the Employment Tab.

And for those interested, the Sedalia Police Department will host the 2016 Citizens Police Academy beginning Sept. 13 at 6 p.m.