Associated Press Published

Huntington to Use Overtime Funds to Hire 5 Police Officers

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The Huntington City Council has agreed to transfer $325,000 from a police overtime budget to use for regular salaries for the next fiscal year.

The Herald-Dispatch reports Saturday’s move will allow for the hiring of five police officers.

Council member Mike Shockley says “putting officers back on the streets is a priority.”

In January, a budget deficit prompted the layoffs of 10 probationary officers, six civilian employees and a part-time officer in the police department.

Police Chief Joe Ciccarelli says laid-off officers will be given priority for hiring with the five patrol jobs.