The Ohio State University Police Division (OSUPD) has increased its ranks, welcoming three new officers during a pinning ceremony held last week on October 24. The new additions, Alexis Guthrie, Caden Mosher, and Josh Long, were celebrated by their families, peers, and the OSUPD leadership, advancing the division closer to its full authorized strength of 75 sworn police officers. Information about the ceremony was released on OSUPD's official website.
The significance of this event was underlined by OSUPD Chief Dennis Jeffrey, who was quoted as saying in a statement obtained by OSUPD, "We're proud to welcome these dedicated new officers who bring a broad range of experience to our department and a strong commitment to public safety." This sentiment was shared across the department as the trio is set to not only fill ranks but also to introduce new insights to public service. Notably, OSUPD counts on the support of hundreds of non-sworn security, a dispatch center, and modern surveillance capabilities to maintain safety on campus.
Guthrie hails from Zanesville, Ohio, and boasts an extensive background in law enforcement. Having received her Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy (OPOTA) certificate from Zane State College Police Academy, she served with the Zanesville Police Department for four years and was part of the Mount Vernon Police Department before her current appointment.
Joining her is Mosher, an Ohio native with prior experience as a corrections officer in the Morrow County Sheriff’s Office. He holds an OPOTA certificate from North Central State College Police Academy and served with the Mount Gilead Police Department for a year. Mosher is currently working hard to complete his associate degree. Hailing from Grove City, Long earned an associate degree in exercise science before he trained at the Columbus Police Academy to serve with the Grove City Police Department.
Before the officers are set to patrol solo, they will have to first complete a 14-week field training program, an essential step to prepare them for the responsibilities they're about to shoulder. The department, students, and the wider community look forward to the positive impact Guthrie, Mosher, and Long will undeniably bring to their roles in ensuring public safety. For more information on the pinning ceremony and the new officers, visit the OSUPD announcement.
