Family, friends and fellow police officers packed this week’s West Wyoming Borough Council meeting as Stanley Sipko Jr was sworn in as the new borough Chief of Police. District Judge Paul Roberts swore in Sipko as Judge Ann Lokuta and County Sheriff Michael Savokinas looked on. After taking his oath of office, Sipko thanked those in attendance for their support and friendship.

Sipko, son of Stanley Sr and Kathleen Sipko has been an officer in the West Wyoming Police department since 1991. He rose through the ranks from Patrolman to Sergeant to Assistant Chief of Police. An active member of the department, he has advanced training in computers, high-risk warrant service and participation in the drug task force. “Chief Sipko brings to his new position a wealth of experience, service and a dedicated commitment to continue the advancements required in our ever changing world of police service, “ says West Wyoming Mayor Joe Herbert. Sipko looks forward to increased cooperation with neighboring police departments as he begins his tenure as chief. “Now as Chief of Police I intend to further the department in many ways, working with several other departments to share information and resources to help the community,” says Sipko. He has already made a big impact on the department, co authoring a $46,500 grant, which was used to purchase a new police cruiser, computers and police station renovations. “The residents of West Wyoming can be assured the West Wyoming Police Department will continue to advance with new technology requirements and training with Chief Sipko leading the way,” concluded Mayor Herbert.

Sipko replaces Chief Dave Gashi who retired December 31 after serving the borough for 36 years, 30 of them as Chief of Police. Retiring Chief Gashi had many fond memories of his service to West Wyoming Borough, as he reflected on his 36 years as a police officer. Gashi has made many friends and enjoyed his interaction with borough residents. Over the years, he has made a positive impact on the borough through his work as Chief of Police. Gashi was the chairman of the Upper Luzerne and Lower Lackawanna Drug Task Force for 10 years and began the first county DUI check point in West Wyoming.  He has also been active in the community, organizing the first Policeman’s Ball in the borough to raise money for much needed police equipment in 1980. In 1988, Gashi was awarded a plaque from the borough for his leadership and dedication to the community and the police department. “During his career Chief Gashi showed his dedication to the residents of West Wyoming and also his commitment to maintaining the highest standards of police professionalism for himself and his entire police force, says Mayor Herbert.