Derry police are operating under a new three-year agreement and are planning to strengthen their enforcement capabilities with new communication gear and weapons meant to cause less harm in encounters with suspects.
The borough council has approved a new contract covering five police officers that will be valid until the end of 2026. The officers were previously operating under an expired agreement until July.
Sgt. Doug Sam, who is currently serving as the police department’s acting chief, expressed satisfaction with the contract.
Sam mentioned that the contract negotiations were not a major concern, though there were some delays due to scheduling conflicts involving the attorneys.
According to Sam, officers will receive a 25-cent hourly raise each year of the contract.
As a way to retain officers, part-timers will now receive a time-and-a-half rate for working on holidays and will also be eligible for paid time off, said Sam.
Mayor Grant Nicely informed that Derry police Chief Randy Glick, who is under a separate contract, is currently on an extended medical leave.
The council has recently authorized the purchase of new radios and less-than-lethal equipment, pending funding approval to cover the costs.
The department aims to acquire four portable radios, three Taser devices, and equipment and ammunition to convert shotguns for firing rubber bullets, as explained by Sam.
The borough is seeking funding from the Westmoreland County District Attorney’s Office to cover the costs of the items.
Nicely mentioned that the new police equipment has been long overdue and is expected to significantly enhance the department’s efficiency.
He expressed hope that the items will be available for use within the next two months.
The new radios will replace models that are at least ten years old, as stated by council President Al Checca.
Derry recently obtained used police cameras, including two dash cameras installed in borough police vehicles and ten body cameras for the officers.
Checca mentioned that the council has approved the construction of a server for officers to download their data, with assistance from a council member experienced in information technology.
Sam mentioned that borough officials need to create a policy for the use of the cameras, and officers have to undergo training before the devices can be deployed.
He aims to have the policy ready within the next month or two.
