3 Twp. Cops Climb Ranks With Promotions

The Washington Township Police Department has seen several retirements in recent years, with another major departure coming this summer. As a result, officers have the opportunity to climb the ranks, and three did so Monday night at the Washington Township Committee’s regular meeting.

Sergeant Jeffrey Almer was promoted to Lieutenant; Corporal Robert Oranchak was promoted to Sergeant; and Officer Kirk Griffin was promoted to Corporal.

As the three officers assumed their new positions, the Township Committee was faced with another promotion process.

Chief Michael Bailey has announced he will retire effective Aug. 1, and his position will need to be filled. The process has begun to replace Bailey, but there is no timetable set on when a decision will be made.

“This is terrific community with a caring (township) committee,” said former Chief George Kluetz before the swearing in ceremony. “This is a bright police department that is well educated. If you received a job here, it’s because you earned it.”

Mayor Bill Roehrich acknowledged the difficulty of the decision of which officers to promote as well.

“What an experience this was,” Roehrich said. “Going through this process in my professional career, hiring employees, is so much easier than this. These are difficult because all the candidates rise to a level… they all know we expect the best in this town. This town is safe largely because of you guys.”

Pictured: From left, Lt. Jeffrey Almer being sworn-in and receiving his badge; Sgt. Robert Oranchak being sworn-in and receiving his badge; and Cpl. Kirk Griffin being sworn in and receiving his badge.