Chief Mae and Chief Tanner serve as Chief for a Day

Two of Olney’s youngest citizens - Mae Stewart and Tanner McElroy - took over as Chief of the Olney Police Department for a day and did a splendid job of it, OPD Chief Dan Birbeck said.

Chief Mae got her badge on Jan. 16 and got right to work, Chief Birbeck said.

Chief Stewart took care of official business at the Olney Police Station and hit the streets on patrol. She made a traffic stop and issued a citation to a motorist who ran a stop sign, ensuring that Olney’s roads stayed safe, he said. She then investigated suspicious activity at the school, keeping a watchful eye on our community. As part of her leadership duties, she also toured the new police department construction site to make sure everything was on track for its official opening later this month.

At the end of her shift, the OPD celebrated her dedication with a certificate commemorating the occasion and presented her with an Olney Police Department challenge coin—a token of their appreciation for her hard work and leadership.

Chief Tanner was sworn in on Jan. 31, receiving his uniform and a duty weapon. He hit the range for some target practice and turned out to be a good shot, Chief Birbeck said.

Chief Tanner got a full tour of the old police department and checked out the construction progress then hit the streets for patrol. During his shift, he stopped a truck for running a stop sign and issued a citation, then wrapped up the day by busting a thief trying to make off with some tools.

Chief Tanner wasted no time slapping the cuffs on the bad guy and making sure he got a ride straight to jail!

Back at the PD after booking the bad guy in, Chief Tanner was presented with a certificate of appreciation , a department challenge coin, the department shoulder patch and badge, and a lapel pin for his service today! Great job, Chief Tanner and Chief Mae!