Othello PD to expand detective division

OTHELLO — The Othello Police Department will expand its detective division to address changes in patterns of crime.

Othello Police Chief Phil Schenck said crime, especially violent crime, is increasing nationally, and he anticipates – and is seeing – an increase in violent crime in Othello also.

The detective division will be expanded from one to two people, Schenck said, and a sergeant will be added. The new detective will be transferred from within the department, and a new patrol officer will be hired.

A second patrol officer position is open, and Schenck said he expects to hire someone to fill it as well.

The personnel changes prompted changes in the department’s contracts with the unions representing officers and sergeants. Othello City Council members approved the changes at their March 8 meeting.

The contract will include another work option, allowing some officers to work the equivalent of a 10-hour day, four days per week. Schenck said the detectives usually aren’t needed on weekends, but are needed for duties that happen during the week,such as court appearances.

The new contract also will add some flexibility for the department’s school resource officer, he said.