More police officers could be on their way to the Fort Myers Police Department.
On Monday, City Council will be talking about the possibility of applying for a $1,250,000 grant offered to local police agencies. It's part of the Justice Department's "Cops Hiring Program."
The grant, if awarded, is meant for agencies to use to hire new officers, including existing vacancies that are no longer funded in the agency's budget. The money may also be used to rehire officers who have been laid off as a result of budget cuts. The money is not meant to be used to pay for officer overtime or leave of absence.
Agencies applying for the grant are required to identify a specific crime and disorder problem or focus area and explain how funding will be used to implement policing approaches. The Department of Justice says additional consideration is given to applicants who identify violent crime, homeland security, and illegal immigration as three focus areas.
Four In Your Corner asked the Fort Myers Police Department how many officers the grant would potentially help hire and requested an interview to discuss how the money would benefit the department and community.
A spokesperson declined to comment.
Four In Your Corner also asked if the money would be used to hire patrol officers or help cover other roles within the department but have not received a response.
Earlier today, fifteen officers were promoted in an afternoon ceremony in Fort Myers. Two new Captains, six new lieutenants, and seven new Sergeants were sworn in the city clerk.
Promoted to rank of Captain are William Newhouse and Jay Rodriguez. Promoted to rank of Lieutenant are Jason Fields, Shawn Yates, Brian O'Reilly, Joshua Steinman, Willie Tellis and Walter Mitchell. Promoted to rank of Sergeant are Jesus Ramos, David Conticelli, Dominic Zammit, Candice Petaccio, Lesa Breneman, Ashley Schindler and Michael Walsh.
