 Boone's new Chief of Police Dana B. Crawford stands with his wife Melinda as he is sworn in Monday. Photo by Holt Menzies
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by BECKY BUSH
Intern News Reporter
On October 12 at 11 a.m. in the Town Council Chambers Mayor Loretta Clawson called Dana B. Crawford and his wife up in front of a room full of supportive friends, family and co-workers to swear him in as the new Chief of Police.
“It is a great day for Boone,” Clawson said.
Crawford put his hands over a Bible and repeated several statements about his devotion to the safety of the town while he was being sworn in.
Crawford has served 18 years on the Beech Mountain Police Department, where he is currently assistant chief of police.
When former Boone Chief of Police Bill Post retired, Clawson said she wanted another chief with similar viewpoints.
“I am so pleased with Dana Crawford,” Clawson said. “He is an exceptional person.”
Clawson said they wanted a new police chief who would be able to serve for several years.
“The
chief of police is responsible for the entire repression of crime
within the community,” Crawford said. “How you go about doing that is
an entirely different story.”
Crawford
said he has many visions and goals, but the Boone Police Department is
in good shape, so he does not know yet how much he will need to change.
His
biggest goal is reinforcing community relations by continuing to work
with Appalachian State University, the business community, children,
schools and elderly citizens.
“I have
sort of a heads up about the town,” Crawford said. “I have a pretty
good idea of the problems and the advantages of living in the area. I’m
looking forward to it.”
Crawford said he feels it is more important to repress crimes before they happen so they do not need to be solved.
“I’m really excited about the opportunity,” Crawford said. “We’re really looking forward to it.”
Coordinator
for Off-Campus Community Relations Kendal B. McDevitt said there are
annual meetings between local law enforcement and key Appalachian
administrators where they discuss ways they can work together.
“ASU and
Boone police have worked well in the past,” McDevitt said. “We have
collaborated and had open communication when necessary. We’re hopeful
that will remain.”
Crawford is looking forward to the opportunity to serve as chief of police.
“The police department is the protector of the citizens not the oppressor of the citizens,” Crawford said.
Photo by Holt Menzies | Chief Photographer
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