Pulaski County Sheriff Chris Schramm informed county council members of a new hire during their meeting Monday.
Sheriff Schramm stated the department has been fortunate to hire Keaton Leszek. He added Leszek comes from the North Judson Police Department and is a certified K-9 handler. Leszek has three years of experience and is a graduate of the Law Enforcement Academy.
Sheriff Schramm said normally it takes nine months to a year to get most officers on the road but with Leszek, he is already working by himself and has been equipped with a K-9 vehicle. Schramm stated due to Leszek being a certified K-9 officer and also already having been through the Law Enforcement Academy it saves Pulaski county $60,000 to $70,000.
Sheriff Schramm stated he was asking the council to approve a special exception to start Leszek at the three-year Matrix due to his previous experience and having certifications. The council made a motion to approve the special exception. That motion was seconded and passed unanimously by vote.