Police force expands; officers ready to serve
By Erin Seifarth
As part of preparations to take over a larger territory later this year, the Woodstock Police Force (WPF) welcomed five new constables to its ranks. The new officers were appointed on April 7.
During the town council meeting on April 14, WPF Chief Mark Bennett and Deputy Chief Simon Watts introduced the new officers, and Mayor Trina Jones presented each with their badge.
Meet the Officers:
Constable Claire Deweyert
Originally from Holmesville, New Brunswick, Deweyert completed her Bachelor of Arts honours in psychology, majoring in criminology, at Saint Thomas University. She studied eyewitness identification and the impact of eyewitness testimony on jury decisions in court at Carleton University and completed her practicum placement at the RCMP National Headquarters.
Deweyert is an active member of the community, volunteering to coach high school badminton, Special Olympics swimming, and track and field.
“Constable Deweyert is smart, calm, and steady. We are fortunate to have her as a member of the Woodstock Police Force,” said Chief Bennett.
Constable Richard Dickinson
Constable Dickinson grew up in Canterbury and has spent the last ten years working in various fields in and around the Woodstock area. He was inspired to follow in the footsteps of many of his family members who also serve in law enforcement.
Dickinson enjoys spending his free time in the great outdoors, especially camping, canoeing or quality time with friends and family.
“His calm presence and easy-going nature make him a wonderful fit for the Woodstock Police Force. We’re certainly happy to have him,” said Deputy Chief Watts.
Constable Michael Howath
Howath was born in South Africa. He immigrated to Canada with his family in 2006, first to British Columbia, then to Alberta, before settling in Florencville-Bristol. He now lives in Hartland. He studied to be a paramedic and spent a year in the military before deciding to become a police officer.
Howath enjoys golf, rock climbing, jiu-jitsu and rugby.
“Howath jumped into his job training with a positive attitude and a keen readiness to try new things,” said Chief Bennett. “We look forward to helping him develop his skills and know we can learn from him, as well.”
Constable Mitch McCoy
Growing up with two military parents, McCoy moved frequently. A sports enthusiast, he played football, basketball, volleyball and AAA soccer and graduated from Oromocto High School with honours. He received a scholarship to study at the University of Ottawa, where he played football and pursued a degree in criminology. He then moved to Fredericton, where he studied at UNB for five years, ran track and played football. He then got a contract to play football in Germany.
“He always believed policing would be a great career transition,” said Watts. “When he returned to New Brunswick, he met his future spouse, a fellow police officer, and they are now living the dream, having a hobby farm and continuing to add to their little family. Constable McCoy is a positive go-getter and a wonderful addition to the Woodstock Police Force.”
Constable Lukas Calhoun
Calhoun graduated from Woodstock High School before attending the Atlantic Police Academy for conservation enforcement. He then worked as a deputy sheriff at the Woodstock Sheriff’s Office before reattending the Police Academy, where he was awarded the Chief Miles Burke Award.
“We are incredibly proud of him and his hard work, his dedication,” said Bennett. “We absolutely look forward to seeing him apply that same drive in the community, along with the other four. We are extremely proud of you.”
Photo: WPF Constable Lukas Calhoun being presented his badge by Mayor Trina Jones. (Erin Seifarth photo)
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