Pat Donahue/Times-EnterpriseNew Thomasville Police officers Rusty Evans and Terrell Rogers take their oath from Chief John Letteney.

THOMASVILLE — The Thomasville Police Department swore in two new officers and promoted two police officers Monday morning at a ceremony held at the Ritz Amphitheater.

Rusty Evans and Terrell Rogers were officially sworn in as the newest recruits and Jason Baldwin and Jabar Dunbar were promoted to lieutenants. 

“This is an exciting time for the Thomasville Police Department because it signifies achievement, improvement and ongoing leadership as well as new beginnings and career development for our personnel.” Police Chief John Letteney said in his opening remarks. “As the challenges facing law enforcement change and grow, we must be ready to face those challenges. We do so in large measure through leadership.”

Letteney acknowledged the extensive process in choosing and promoting police officers through TPD and said he is confident the candidates chosen will carry on TPD’s oath and service. 

“A great deal of thought, planning, review and discernment went into the selection of these promotees because it is that important,” he said. “I am proud of their accomplishment and am looking forward to seeing their leadership abilities be challenged, enhanced, and put to good use in serving this community.”

Dunbar has 17 years of law enforcement experience, including four years at the Thomas County Sheriff’s Office and 13 years at TPD, serving through several departments such as narcotics and investigations. 

Now that he is promoted, Dunbar said he is eager to continue doing the work he’s been doing. 

“I’m so excited. It’s just a day that I’ve been preparing for,” he said. “I just want to continue to serve my community and do what needs to be done as far as making sure they’re being treated fair, protect the constitution and also just doing what I do best to continue to help people.” 

Evans owns his own wrecker business and mechanic shop but decided he wanted to do more for the community, which is why he decided to invest in a career at TPD.

“It feels a lot better now. It was one of those things to eventually get done,” he said referring to the ceremony. ”(I will) Use my training to help the community more or less.”

Sheriff Carlton Powell was in attendance at the ceremony and said he’s happy to see the proper recognition being carried out by TPD. 

“It’s always good to see officers get promoted and to see people excel at their job. Some of these officers have been here a long time. They do a good job and I’m proud for them,” he said.

City Council member Jay Flowers said in his closing remarks that the ceremony is important to the Thomasville community.  

“It helps us recognize how important this is for our community. Thomasville is often recognized as a very special place and it’s only a special place because it’s safe,” he said. “We are truly blessed to have strong leadership, strong people who stand up for us and serve. These gentlemen have stepped up and stepped into the ring to protect each and every one of us.”