In a special called meeting Friday, Brookhaven aldermen voted to take certain steps before approving any new hires for the Brookhaven Police Department.

The board must have an opportunity to review such things as applications, employment histories, driving records and criminal histories prior to taking a vote on whether to approve the hire of an officer or dispatcher.

No reason for the discussion or vote was offered by the board or BPD leadership.

So far in 2022, one BPD dispatcher resigned, one retired and one was hired. Anna Holybee resigned, Bennie Marvin Nesmith retired and Melissa Taylor was hired.

Two officers have resigned — Kaleb Carithers and Clarence O’Quinn, both in January. 

Five officers were hired in January and February.

Kennis Montgomery and James Kyle Huhn were hired as full-time certified officers. Derek Bethley and Benjamin Hux were hired as non-certified officers. Cpl. Paul Rejon was re-hired in February after a stint at the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office.

According to public records, BPD has 34 full-time officers, two part-time officers and six civilian employees.