By Kimberly Gasuras
CCN Reporter
BUCYRUS — Doug McDonald always has wanted to be a police officer, and his dream recently became reality when he was hired as the newest officer on the Bucyrus Police force.
McDonald, a graduate of Tiffin Columbian High School, graduated a few months ago from Tiffin University with a degree in criminal justice before heading to the police academy at Terra State Community College in Fremont.
“I have always wanted to be an officer,” McDonald said. “I love serving the community and helping people.”
McDonald has been on the job for a few weeks and says he really enjoys working in the Bucyrus community.
“I really like the people here,” he said. “Everyone has been very welcoming.”
McDonald said he took the civil service exam in May.
“I took the test the same day as (Daniel) Rufner,” said McDonald of his fellow officer, who also recently began his career with the Bucyrus Police Department.
Bucyrus Police Chief David Koepke has said McDonald replaced Officer Sam Caldwell, who recently retired from the force and took a position as victims advocate in the city prosecutor’s office.
McDonald’s hiring brings the number of officers on the force to 19.
Applications still are being accepted to fill other positions. The department is authorized by the city to have 22 officers on staff.