New Washington officer sworn in

WASHINGTON — Mia Brdecka is the newest police officer in Washington, after a brief swearing-in ceremony Monday morning by Mayor Jaron Rosien.

“I’m excited for officer Brdecka to begin her career here,” Rosien said. “I also want to thank Chief Lester, the command staff and the officers that were involved in the interview process … when the team is a part of picking a new member, I think that sets up her and the entire department for success.”

Police Chief Jim Lester said Brdecka — an Iowa class of 2022 graduate majoring in criminology, law, sociology and a minor in social work — stood out from the field as a former student security manager for the school and volunteer online crisis counselor

“We had nine applicants, we interviewed four, and she was overwhelmingly the best candidate,” he said. “She had some good experience already in working with people, and she’s a great fit. She interviewed well, she is eager to get started, and she’s going to be a big asset to the department and a good part of the team.”

Brdecka said she was looking forward to her new role.

“I always wanted to pursue law enforcement since high school,” she said. “I’m very excited, I got to meet a bunch of different people in the community, so it’s nice to start to familiarize myself with everyone.”

The new officer said she was drawn to city for its people.

“It’s a great town, it’s a unique town in that it is a smaller town but it doesn’t feel like a true small town,” she said. “I like how close the community is, I like how they support their law enforcement.”

Brdecka is scheduled for 16 weeks of academy training in Johnston starting in August. After that, police officials said she was scheduled to take on full responsibilities in December.

Comments: Kalen.McCain@southeastiowaunion.com