By Jeff Devine | Dale County Chronicle
The Ozark Police Department is celebrating a series of well-earned promotions among its ranks, recognizing the dedication, leadership, and commitment of several officers who continue to set a high standard for excellence in local law enforcement.
Investigator Zachary Lapeer has been promoted to Corporal within the Investigations Unit. In the patrol division, Officer Jacob Sasser and Officer Juan Alvarez have also been promoted to the rank of Corporal.
Among the department’s leadership, Sergeant Benjamin Price has been promoted to Lieutenant, and Lieutenant Everett Evans has advanced to the rank of Captain.
In a statement, the department expressed pride and appreciation for the officers’ continued service, noting that their professionalism and dedication “define the standard of excellence within the Ozark Police Department.”
“These officers represent the pedigree of our organization’s leadership,” the department shared. “We are honored to stand beside them as they lead with vision, courage, and a commitment to excellence in every chapter of their careers.”
The Dale County Chronicle reached out to Police Chief and Director of Public Safety Charles Ward to discuss the promotions and the importance of recognizing the department’s leaders.
“We just recognized those for their dedicated service and all the work that they do,” Ward said. “In this field, we are always seeking leaders. We’ve got to have people who are leaders. What that means is that these leaders are teaching, mentoring, and growing others in their profession to help them grow into the best they can be.”
Ward added that leadership in law enforcement extends beyond the department itself. “This also includes everything from day-to-day duties and responsibilities to working out in the community so the people know the people serving them through the police department,” he said.
He emphasized that the promotions not only strengthen the department but also benefit the community as a whole. “This is good for Ozark and for the people as these leaders work to carry out the mission and continue to serve the citizens of Ozark,” Ward said.
Pictured in a group photo shared by the department are Deputy Chief Michael Bryan, Director/Chief Charles Ward, Captain Everett Evans, Lieutenant Benjamin Price, Investigator Corporal Zachary Lapeer, Corporal Jacob Sasser, Corporal Juan Alvarez, and Captain Jerome Niles.
The Ozark Police Department extended congratulations to all the promoted officers and thanked them for their continued dedication to serving and protecting the Ozark community.
