2 Police Officers Promoted In Warminster

WARMINSTER, PA —One started the police department's drone unit. The other serves as a model for how officers are trained.

Two police officers who have built a reputation as innovators in the township's police department have been promoted, with one becoming a lieutenant and the other a sergeant.

Police Chief James Donnelly introduced Chris McCole for lieutenant and Kevin McLaughlin for sergeant as both officers were sworn in by District Judge Daniel Finello Jr. before their families and Warminster Township Supervisors during a recent meeting.

McCole, a 20-year veteran of the police force, received his bachelor's degree in public safety administration from Neumann University. He's married with four children and served in the U.S. Army National Guard.

"He is one of the key reasons how we shape and train our police officers," Donnelly said.

Donnelly said that McCole is recognized by police departments in five counties and works closely with the Philadelphia Police Department with his experience in weapons tactics.

"I've known Chris for many years," Finello said. "He's the consummate professional. I wish him well."

McLaughlin was hired in 2008 and "has done well over the last 15 years," Donnelly said.

Donnelly said the former highway safety officer, field training officer, and detective tactics instructor wrote a proposal for the township to have drones.

"He was one of the driving forces for us adding drones to the department," the chief said.

He's a graduate of LaSalle University with a degree in criminal justice and a master's degree in cyber security from Southern New Hampshire University in 2008.

He's married to his wife Kate and has four children.

"I got to see him grow up as a police officer," Finello said. "He's smart and very efficient."