Pine Ridge, SC (Paul Kirby) – Chief Frankie Neeley of the Pine Ridge Police Department took a few moments at Tuesday night's town council meeting to swear in two patrol officers for the department. Part-time Officer Jamie Belval took her oath of office first, followed closely by Officer Patrick Swanson. Both officers received their oath from Interim Police Chief Frankie Neeley while accompanied by loved ones. Many small Lexington County towns use officers from other departments in a part-time capacity to supplement their forces.
The chief advised the council in his Police Department Administrative Report from December 2018 that the department had 12 total calls for service resulting in zero arrests for the month. They issued 12 traffic citations and seven warnings. He said that they had been actively receiving applications for their open position and were looking to fill the third full-time slot soon. Pending approval from council, this officer would hold the rank of sergeant. There has been some discussion about adding a fourth full-time officer, however the council is carefully studying their finances before making any decision on that.
Other business at-hand included a report on the 2008 Chevy Tahoe which has been out of commission for some time now after being involved in an accident. Chief Neeley said that the side airbag needed to be replaced, but that part is apparently out of stock nationwide. He said he has been told to expect those to remain out of stock for at two to three more weeks. This is what is holding up the repair of the cruiser to service.
