The Loveland Police Department added two officers to its ranks Tuesday, July 14, as families packed the council chamber at City Hall to watch the swearing-in. Ryan Wedmore and Elijah Brown took the oath of office administered by Vice Mayor Andy Bateman. Both officers' wives pinned their badges.

Wedmore is a returning officer who previously served with the Loveland Police Department and has stayed involved in community events over the past year. He brings more than 16 years of law enforcement experience, including time as a sergeant at the Brown County Sheriff's Office, according to Police Captain Daniel Gangar.

"Throughout his career, he's earned a reputation for professionalism, integrity, sound judgment, and a genuine commitment to service to his community," Gangar said at the ceremony.

Wedmore's wife, Sammy, and their three daughters, Navy, Charlie, and Shirley, attended.

Brown, a Milford High School graduate, previously served with the Dayton Police Department. He spent much of his childhood in Loveland and worked in healthcare before switching to law enforcement. Gangar told the council that Brown has "a genuine appreciation for the people and values" of the city.

Brown's wife, Lacy, and their children, River and Malachi, were in the chamber along with extended family members and his mother.

After administering the oath, Bateman addressed both officers.

"I want to acknowledge how grateful we are to you for choosing a career in law enforcement and to making this commitment to Loveland to serve," Bateman said.

The Loveland Police Department is authorized for 24 full-time officers, including the chief, assistant chief, five lieutenants, and 17 patrol officers, according to the city's website.

At the same meeting, council authorized submission of an Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant application and committed the required local match for police radios.

Police Chief Michael Gabrielson expressed appreciation for the city's continued support of the department.

The next Loveland City Council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, July 28.