Cushing Police Chief Terry Brannon announced the promotion of three police officers following a brief staff meeting, Wednesday, at City Hall. Those moving up in the ranks were Charles (Chuck) Claxton, Sergeant, Randy Evans, MPO and Justin Sappington, acting MPO.
“It’s about growth,” Brannon said. “I feel real good about the direction we’re headed.”
Sergeant Claxton joined the force in 2000 and recently received his advanced CLEET (Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training) certification.
“I’m glad Chuck decided to come to work for us,” Brannon said.
Sgt. Claxton’s wife Kerri and their two sons, Dawson (who will turn 4 later this month) and 3-month-old Kyler, as well as other family members, were present for the announcement.
Claxton addressed his fellow officers saying, “I look forward to working with you guys. I’m only as good as the guys I work with. This means a lot to me…I hope you all know that.”
The decision as to who would advance to Master Police Officer (MPO) was a tough one according to Brannon. “We agonized and struggled on the selection,” Brannon said.
In the end, Randy Evans ended up with the new title of MPO, with Justin Sappington being named acting MPO.
“It was so close,” Brannon said, shaking his head.
Evans has been on the police force since 2003 and has completed field training as well as Taser instruction. “I really believe that is what catapulted him in his career,” Brannon surmised.
Evans is married to Heather and has two children, Aspyn (who also turns 4 later this month) and 5-month-old Kamden. “I want to say thanks to my sergeant and to Chief for the training,” Evans said. “Oh -and thanks to Justin for pushing me!”
Now acting MPO Sappington has been on the force for a mere 22 months but has proven himself to his fellow officers and Chief Brannon. “I appreciated it so much that Justin participated in this process,” Brannon said. “He did a good job.”
“I’m real pleased with our staff,” Brannon concluded.
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