New CPD officers ready for training

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The next training for police officers at the State Police Academy will include four new officers from the Charleston Police Department. The group was sworn-in Thursday morning at Charleston City Hall.

4 new officers were sworn-in Thursday.
4 new officers were sworn-in Thursday.

Jennifer Ball, 22, of South Charleston, said she wants to give back to the community.

“I wanted a career where I’m able to help people. It will be something that will challenge me,” Ball said.

Jordan Hilbert, 24, of St. Albans, said his biggest goal was to one day be able to earn a spot in the department’s Criminal Investigations Department.

“I’m really looking forward to working my way up through the department,” Hilbert said.

Also taking the oath were Michael Fortier, 27, of Huntington and Timmedrik Lyndsey, 26, of Ravencliff.

The officers will train at the academy for 16 weeks followed by an additional 20 weeks of orientation and field training with the Charleston Police Department.

The class sworn-in Thursday marks the last one under longtime Chief Brent Webster who retires early next month to take another city job. He’s being replaced by Chief of Detectives Lt. Steve Cooper.