FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Five new officers were officially sworn in during a ceremony at the University of Arkansas Police Department’s annual “Back to School” staff meeting last month.

"We are very excited to have all of these officers on board,” said UAPD director Steve Gahagans. They have already begun to make significant contributions to our department in a variety of ways. They have been instrumental in supporting our General Health and Physical Fitness Program, and they have demonstrated an understanding of our community policing philosophy. They will continue to attend additional training in an effort to provide quality service to our community."

Officers Brian Haines and Aaron Mahan both joined the department on Jan. 8, while officer Bobby Ingle was hired June 4. Officer Kim Bertschy previously worked as a UAPD dispatcher, but was hired as an officer on Sept. 18, 2006. All four officers are assigned to the patrol division. Officer Iciephine Sykes was hired on June 25 and is currently attending the Arkansas Law Enforcement Training Academy.