City, schools still covered

This week the Cleveland Police Department will finish its hiring process as officials look to fill six vacancies following the swearing-in of newly-elected Bolivar County Sheriff Kelvin Williams. A School Resource Officer for the Cleveland Police Department, Williams hired fellow SRO Michael Lamb and four patrol officers to be deputies.

According to CPD Chief Charles “Buster” Bingham, the officers did not leave the department in as much of a bind as one would think.

“We’re still operating like we always have,” he explained. “I’ve been asked that question a thousand times. We had two SROs and four patrolmen that came off two or three different shifts. We were able to absorb that with no problem.”

Bingham said a police captain has been able to provide coverage within the schools.

“We have coverage in the schools,” he said. “We have coverage in the streets.”

The application process actually began before the new year and approximately 45 were sent in.

Bingham said the holidays hindered part of the process because it was difficult getting in touch with people for background checks.

This week the interview process will occur and those fitting the department’s standards may be offered a job, which would have to be approved at the next meeting of the Cleveland Mayor and Board of Aldermen.

“We’re looking at everything,” the chief said about what he is looking for in future officers. “Certification is a plus, but it’s not a requirement. We’re looking for the people we think will work well within the Cleveland Police Department and with community members in the city.”

There are currently 40 sworn officers within the department.