2 new police officers hired in Bridgeville

Two new officers have joined the Bridgeville Police Department.

Borough council on Tuesday, Dec. 9 hired officers Brayden Fedorek and Matthew McDanel.

“Both can, and I believe will, be assets to this department and the community for the foreseeable future,” said Chief Gary James. “We are excited to bring them on board and are looking forward to getting them in service as soon as possible.”

Fedorek has worked for St. Clair Hospital Police, Western Psychiatric Hospital and most recently, as a police officer for the Department of Veterans Affairs, James said.

“Fedorek will bring his knowledge of dealing with persons who may be in crisis to the table,” James said. “He has a good understanding of deescalation practices which should easily transition from the clinical settings to the streets. He also has a deep desire to learn, which will be invaluable to him in the future.”

McDanel has extensive background in law enforcement, James said. He has worked for the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Clairton, and Liberty and Lincoln boroughs.

“McDanel will bring his extensive experience to the community and has working knowledge of the community-oriented policing concepts we operate under,” James said. “His experience will enable him to easily transition into the department.”

Starting salaries for both officers will be $66,900, with 10% incremental raises every eight months until top pay in two years, James said.

Each officer will be placed under immediate supervision of a certified field training officer for a minimum of their first eight weeks, James said. They will be on a probationary period for their first year. With the hirings, the department is at full staff.

Bridgeville has nine officers: Chief James, two sergeants, and six patrol officers.