CPPD welcomes new officer

By Terry Murry on Friday, May 7th, 2021 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories

COLLEGE PLACE – The College Place Police Department commissioned its newest officer this week. Officer Chris Williams got his badge this week at a meeting of the College Place City Council. He had already put in a great deal of work before it became official.

Williams trained for a total of 31 weeks, part of it at the Basic Law Enforcement Academy in Burien and the rest coming as field training in College Place. Prior to that training, Williams had to take a written test and pass a physical fitness exam. After that, he underwent an oral board. Then he and two other top candidates were interviewed for the final selection.

He also had to pass a polygraph test, undergo psychological testing, a medical examination and an extensive background investigation. Chief Troy Tomaras said that no other jobs in Washington put applicants through such a rigorous process before hiring.

“Recruiting and hiring the right people is one of my most important functions as chief,” Tomaras said. “We are looking for individuals who encompass our values and seek a call for public service.”