I would like to provide a few words of wisdom to the two newest members of Belleville’s Finest.
It was a special week in the Friendly City, as a swearing in ceremony was held on Tuesday for Constables Meghan Hobbs and Jake London.
They have joined the Belleville Police Service after graduating from the Ontario Police College last month.
So let me say a warm welcome to Constables Hobbs and London, while also providing a heads up on the community you now serve and protect.
It has changed in many ways from the community that greeted me with open arms when I moved here in 1993. Almost all of those ways are for the better.
We have major challenges when it comes to homelessness and substance abuse and the crimes related to it, but the community itself and the people who make it run are good people, friendly and helpful, giving and usually patient.
Social media hasn’t always brought out the best in us, but we help our neighbours, step up when the need arises, and open our hearts and our wallets more times than I can easily count.
Not everyone will say it openly, but the community deeply appreciates what you (and other emergency responders) are doing to protect people and property every day and we are very glad to welcome you to our extended family.
Wear that badge and uniform with pride and know that we will have your back as you continue to protect ours.
I’m Paul Martin and that’s what I see looking Beyond the Headlines.
