Parma Special Police swear in new officers

Three of the newest members of the Parma Special Police Department completed their initial Peace Officer and Special Police training and were sworn in on Monday, December 5 at the Parma Town Offices.

At no cost to recruits, they attended part-time classes through the Monroe County Public Safety Training Center. They now will begin extensive field training including First Aid/CPR, conflict management, defensive tactics and court/arrest procedures. Upon successful completion of required training, and a probationary period, officers are eligible to be recognized as full members of the special police unit by the town.

Peace Officers, when on duty within the town, have the same powers of arrest as a police officers. Unlike the police officer, peace officers are not obligated to act when off duty, maintaining the same rights as any other citizen.

Although the Town of Parma fully trains and equips members, the unit is made up of volunteers from the community. Some members join as a possible first step into law enforcement, others join to help and give back to the community they live in.

"You really get to meet the public from a different perspective," said Parma Special Police Officer Joe Silivestro. Membership runs the gambit from students to professionals and Parma is always looking for new members.

The newest members are: Michael Silivestro and Joseph Silivestro.

December 11, 2005