Elyria PD adds six officers

The Elyria Police Department swore in six new officers at City Hall on Nov. 2. From left, Paige Mitchell, James Wise, Michael Walker, Ryan Conway, Jason Walland and Zara Hudson II. STEVE MANHEIM/CHRONICLE

ELYRIA — Six police officers were sworn in to the Elyria Police Department on Monday afternoon, bringing the force back up to nearly full strength.

The additions grow the department to 84. The city budgets for 85 officers.

The new additions all are part of what is known as the Lateral Transfer Program, which means they worked elsewhere and are certified already, which speeds up the time it takes to get them ready to work in Elyria.

“If they don’t already have the police academy, we have to send them there. That’s four months in time and $35,000,” Police Chief Duane Whitely said.

The new officers are Ryan J. Conway; Zara F. Hudson II; Paige B. Mitchell; Michael T. Walker; Jason M. Walland and James M. Wise. The officers previously worked around the area in North Ridgeville, Lorain County, RTA in Cleveland, West Salem and Grafton.

“I’m very excited, very anxious to start. I’m really looking forward to it,” Walland said.

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