Weissport names new police officer

Weissport has a new police officer.

On a unanimous measure, borough council on Monday agreed to hire Matthew Williams at a salary of $15 per hour, up to 25 hours per week in the summer months, and 15 hours per week in the winter months.

Williams will also be subject to a 90-working day probationary period. State police will continue to respond to emergencies in the borough when Williams isn’t working.

Mayor Paulette Watson recommended Williams’ hiring to council.

“I checked his references and his references are wonderful,” Watson said.

Councilman Thomas Ketchledge echoed that sentiment.

“He (Williams) provided us with a background check, and we also did our own,” Ketchledge said.

Williams is currently a full-time officer with the East Union Township Police Department, as well as a part-time officer in Mahanoy City, where he serves as a school resource officer.

He indicated that his schedule is flexible and won’t affect his work availability in Weissport.

Williams said he knows how Carbon County works due to his prior experience, both as a police officer and a deputy sheriff in the county.

Councilman Greg May told council that Williams had a “stack” of certifications.

After the meeting, Watson said that Williams “has a ton of credentials.”

“We did our own background check on this gentleman, and everything was fine,” she said.

Williams said he believes he will be a good fit for the borough.

“I came to Weissport because I wanted to help, and I do well with small town policing,” he said.

Williams’ hiring comes weeks after former borough police Chief Brent Getz was terminated.

Getz is facing numerous criminal charges in Carbon County Court, including rape of a child.