(La Porte, IN) - A newly-hired police officer will be hitting the streets in La Porte soon.

Currently, Rico Simpson is the Assistant Police Chief in North Judson.  La Porte Police Chief Paul Brettin introduced Simpson during last night’s La Porte City Council meeting.

Brettin also revealed the new officer is bringing his K-9 dog to La Porte to help with law enforcement duties here.

 

“We’re honored to have him,” he said.

 

Simpson, who’s from Knox, got his start in law enforcement 12-years ago as a jail officer in Starke County.  Three years later, he became a police officer in North Judson where he’s been a canine handler for the department the past five years.

 

“I’m really excited to be here.  I really appreciate you guys allowing me to be a police officer here,” Simpson said.

 

Simpson also said he plans to purchase a home in La Porte.

 

After a brief presentation, Simpson was invited to greet and take pictures with Mayor Tom Dermody, members of the city council and other city officials.