HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Police Department held the swearing-in of two new members to the department Thursday morning. Before the actual swearing-in, Hutchinson Police Chief Jeff Hooper talked about the core values of the department.

“Our mission statement is foster trusting relationships while using advanced law enforcement strategies to build a safer community,” Chief Hooper said. “That kind of encompasses what we’re all about in our community engagement because that’s why we’re here, because of that community connection.”

The two new employees are Communications Center manager Jessica Lynch and police officer Taylor Grace.

After taking the oath, Grace had his badge pinned on him by his wife. Grace talked about his desire to become an officer.

“I’ve always been kind of safety oriented, wanted to help the community, make a difference and move forward with my life in a meaningful manner,” Grace said. “I’ve heard a lot of good things about this department, a lot of my family and friends have said good things about this department. So, I was eager to join this family and everyone has been very friendly to me since I started and applied. I couldn’t be happier to join this family.”

He will be heading to the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center next week to begin his training.

The new Communications Center manager, Jessica Lynch, explained what her duties will be with the 911 center.

“I will be the communications manager for the 911 center, so I will be their second-in-command under Michelle Abbott,” Lynch said. “I get to help develop their people and just kind of see where their interests are in 911 and help bring the center up to standards.”

The swearing-in ceremony was held in the Hutchinson Police Department auditorium in the basement of the Law Enforcement Center.