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Chief Clay Says Out with the Old and In with the New

Chief Conny Clay’s campaign to start fresh is unfolding rapidly. He is taking major steps to restore the image of the Olney police department. Within seven months, he has managed to meet his hiring goals and rebrand the department.

Clay confirmed the hiring of two new full-time police officers who joined OPD last week. Neal Newton—with more than five years of experience in law enforcement—and Bill Achey—with almost 20 years of experience in law enforcement. These two new officers will work with the seasoned officer Robert Clark who has been on OPD for more than 25 years.

Dustin Hudson, the new code enforcer, will eventually join the other three full-time officers on the force after he earns his certification as a police officer. Hudson recently started the 19-week class at TCOLE Police Academy in Weatherford.

“I am excited about the new hires. However, OPD is still looking to hire one more officer to satisfy our staffing needs for five fulltime police officers,” Clay said. “Russell Fletcher is the reserve officer who works on the weekend. I want to hire two additional reserve officers to work when needed.” Clay said if anyone who is qualified is interested in the position, contact him to complete the personal history statement.

Another part of rebranding the police department is a new look with the uniforms and police cars. New patches and badges went into effect Monday, Feb. 11. “The new badges and patches are a representation of our fresh start, I say out with the old and in with new,” Clay said. Clay designed the patch with the community in mind. The patch includes some of the businesses and brands for which Olney is known. “Including the community on the patches and badges we wear daily is a symbol of our partnership with the community at a minimal expense.”

Chief Clay said he would keep the community informed through his column “Chief Thoughts” published in Olney Enterprise.