Washington Police Department expands, adds 3 additional officers as ‘part of the family’

ST. GEORGE — Three new police officers and a new animal control officer swore an oath of office to the city of Washington on Wednesday. 

Police officers Keven Larsen, Jason Schoonover and Brennan Moore and Animal Control Officer Colton Tanner swear their oath of office, Washington, Utah, Sept. 28, 2022 | Photo by Truman Burgess, St. George News

These officers fill the three additional positions in the Washington Police Department, matching the city’s recent growth in its fire department. From dispatch caller to adult parole officer, each new officer comes from a distinct background.

“Each one of these gentlemen come with … experience and knowledge,” said Chief Jason Williams of the Washington Police Department. “We’re glad to see them become part of our family.”

Washington Mayor Kress Staheli asked each officer to share some words about what it means to them “to wear the badge.” The officers’ introductions and oath of office are listed below.

Officer Keven Larsen

“I worked at the jail for 10 years. I got tired of the walls, so I jumped over to the adult probation and parole office and worked there for about five years. I’ve been in law enforcement a while, and Washington City’s reputation precedes you. We’d hear about it all the time. When I heard there was an opening, much to my supervisor’s dismay, I jumped over here. The police department here is second to none. I’m happy to be here.

“(This is) something I’ve wanted to do since I was a kid. I jumped in a little late, but the history I have has been a great foundation for what I’m doing now. I got to know a lot of the people you might consider problems to society. I’ve seen the best sides of them in the jail, when they get sober, and you realize the humanity in them. I have a unique view of some of the people we deal with. It’s been a pleasure to help people to improve their lives.”

Officer Brennan Moore

“This is going to be a good thing. I worked with California Highway Patrol for 14 years. I took a year and a half break, so it’s good to get back to serve the community and do what I’ve loved for so long.”

Officer Jason Schoonover

“Growing up in Southern Utah most of my life, this is home. I came from working for dispatch, so I had the opportunity to work with all the departments in the county, and by far, Washington City stands out, and it’s above and beyond the greatest.”

New police officers hug their family members after receiving their badges, Washington, Utah, Sept. 28, 2022 | Photo by Truman Burgess, St. George News

“Being able to have an opportunity to work for Washington City is a dream come true. This is my first time working in law enforcement, so I’m trying to contain all my excitement. I come in every day, ready to roll. It’s fun being with all the guys, seeing so much of the crew stay on for so long. They’re guiding me a lot.”

Animal Control Officer Colton Tanner

“I believe animal control is a big, important job for every city. I mean someone’s got to chase the wild animals across the city. We get the fun job.”

Oath of office

“I do solemnly swear that I will support, obey and defend the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the state of Utah. 

I do also solemnly swear that I will support, obey and defend the laws and ordinances of Washington city, and I will discharge the duties of my office with fidelity.”

Copyright St. George News, SaintGeorgeUtah.com LLC, 2022, all rights reserved.

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