These columns list arrests and not convictions, unless otherwise stated. Anyone listed here who is later found not guilty or has had the charges against them dropped is welcome to inform this newspaper. The information will be confirmed and printed.

New police officers sworn in

By Cathy Womble
Lake Okeechobee News

Posted 3/23/23

During the Tuesday night city council meeting/town hall meeting, three new police officers were sworn in and pinned.

You must be a member to read this story.

Join our family of readers for as little as $10 per month and support local, unbiased journalism.

Already have an account? Log in to continue. Otherwise, follow the link below to join.

I am anchor

New police officers sworn in

Courtesy photo

Police Officers Jason Chapman, Garret Kelley and Brandy Drapal were sworn in on Tuesday night.

Posted Thursday, March 23, 2023 1:45 pm

By Cathy Womble
Lake Okeechobee News

Officer Garret Kelley is pictured with his parents after his pinning on Tuesday night.

Police Officer Brandy Drapal and her children pose for a photo during her pinning ceremony.

Officer Jason Chapman was pinned by his mother during the March 21 city council meeting.

OKEECHOBEE — During the Tuesday night city council meeting/town hall meeting, three new police officers were sworn in and pinned. Jason Chapman, Garret Kelley and Brandy Drapal were each pinned by a family member. Three other new hires, Alexis Bieger, Derek Nails and Dalton Pitts, were unable to make the meeting. John Penfield will begin his career with the Okeechobee City Police Department on Friday, March 24 and will be sworn in and pinned during the next ceremony.