Police Officer Promoted To Full-Time Duty In Yardley Borough

YARDLEY, PA —The Yardley Borough Police Department has promoted a part-time police officer to full-time duty.

During its first item of business at Tuesday night's Borough Council meeting, the council approved the elevation of Dakota B. Romberger to a full-time police officer.

Romberger had been employed as a part-time police officer since March 2020.

He was sworn in by Mayor Chris Harding as his family gathered in the council meeting room to pose for pictures after the ceremony.

"We do not take the role of police officers lightly in Yardley Borough," the mayor said. "We honor and respect the duty. And we appreciate the commitment."

Council President Caroline Thompson offered contratulations

Police Chief Joseph Kelly III told Borough Council that Romberger was the highest applicant on the department's Civil Service list. Yardley hires all full-time officers in compliance with PA State and Yardley Borough Civil Service rules.

“In a time when police recruiting has never been more challenging, Yardley Borough was fortunate enough to compile, via the Civil Service process, a group of outstanding candidates,” Kelly said.

Romberger graduated from Randolph (N.J.) High School and the Montgomery County Police Academy (2019).

He is the recipient of four department commendations, including the 2021 GEM Award, Kelly said.

“Officer Romberger has demonstrated time and time again his commitment to the YBPD core values of integrity, loyalty, respect and courage,” the chief said. "Officer Romberger understands Borough policing and possess the right blend of emotional intelligence and personal initiative to make have a positive impact on his community."

Romberger fills the vacant position created when Officer Joseph Harris relocated out of state earlier this year.

Last month, the borough hired Robert Gergal Jr., 22, as a part-time police officer.