Press release: Eleven Officers Sworn In at Bloomington Police Department—Highest in Over Three Decades

The following press release was shared with the Bloomingtonian:

Eleven Officers Sworn In at Bloomington Police Department—Highest in Over Three Decades

Bloomington, Ind. — The Bloomington Police Department (BPD) welcomed eleven newly sworn officers on Monday, the largest group sworn in at one time in at least 35 years. The unprecedented milestone reflects recent efforts by the City to strengthen public safety staffing and retention.

“We’ve seen a direct impact from the support this administration has provided through take-home vehicles, updated tools, and pay that reflects the demands of the job. These are the things that help us recruit and retain the best,” said Police Chief Michael Diekhoff.

Of the eleven officers sworn in, six are already certified to serve in Indiana. Five have transferred to Bloomington from other law enforcement agencies, including the South Bend Police Department, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office, Martin County Sheriff’s Office, and Indiana University Police Department. One officer who previously served BPD for 21.5 years came out of retirement to rejoin the force.

The newly sworn officers are:

• Brandon Bedolla
• Jared Bell
• Caleb Brinson
• Garrett Day
• Zachary Hawkins
• Shelby Megnin
• Matthew Pearson
• Jason Shaevitz
• James Shields
• Andrew Tillett
• Tony Thomas

“Community safety is the most sacred responsibility of any city,” said Mayor Kerry Thomson. “Without the dedication of those who choose service over comfort and protection over ease, we have no foundation for peace and no space to build a future. These are experienced professionals who have chosen Bloomington and that says a lot about the direction we’re heading and the kind of department we’re building.”

Most recently, the Thomson administration proposed repurposing the former IU Health property at 714 S. Rogers Street as the new headquarters for the Bloomington Police Department—part of a long-term vision to enhance department facilities and better serve the public. The building offers ample space for future expansion, is centrally located, and is accessible by public transit. The site also has the support of police staff and union members, and its sturdy construction makes it a strong candidate for a secure, modern headquarters.

The City continues prioritizing strategic staffing and equipment upgrades as part of a broader effort to improve response times, community policing, and officer well-being.

For recruitment information, visit bloomington.in.gov/police/employment.

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