Dewey police officers promoted

Eight Dewey Beach Police Department officers were promoted during a dinner April 1 at the Hyatt Place Dewey Beach in what Chief Constance Speake said was the department’s single-largest promotional ceremony ever.

“There’s not a single duty I've achieved that is more exciting and satisfying than promoting well-deserving officers for hard work and professional achievement,” Speake said. “These promotions are a strong indicator of stability in the ranks and retention of an outstanding group of highly professional police officers.”

Officers promoted included Adam Ur, officer to patrolman first class; James Rieley, patrolman first class to corporal; Matthew Planer, corporal to staff corporal; Dylan Ebke, corporal to staff corporal; John Kane, corporal to staff corporal; Jesse Swanson, corporal to staff corporal; Carl Kurten, staff corporal to master corporal; and Gavin Vaughn, staff corporal to sergeant.

Speake also recognized the officers’ family members for the support they’ve provided along the way.

In attendance were several town officials, including Mayor Bill Stevens and Town Manager Bill Zolper, both of whom spoke at the ceremony, and Commissioners Paul Bauer and Elisabeth Gibbings.

Lt. Cliff Dempsey called each officer up one by one and read a brief description of his accomplishments. Then, Speake removed the officers’ old badges and replaced them with new ones featuring their new ranks.

“Our agency has greatly benefited from a perfect mixture of well-seasoned veteran officers who [have] a wealth of knowledge and experience and a core of bright, young, energetic officers who love to work in this vibrant resort town,” Speake said.

The department was founded in 1983 with only five officers. It has since expanded to 13 full-time officers, plus additional seasonal officers.

“I ask all of you to remember that as we entrust you with more responsibility, you set the example, demonstrate the highest ethical standards and demand absolute professionalism in your actions and those of your fellow officers,” Speake said.