McCandless swears in new police officer

McCandless has added a new member to its police force.

Council voted unanimously at its Sept. 23 meeting to hire Michael Cavaliere as a patrol officer.

He was sworn in by Councilwoman Carolyn Schweiger, who heads the town’s public safety committee.

Cavaliere is a native of the North Hills and graduated with a bachelor of arts degree in criminology with a minor in sociology from Indiana University of Pennsylvania.

He is a graduate of the Allegheny County Police Academy, where he received special recognition awards for physical fitness, academics and firearms.

Cavaliere most recently worked as a sergeant for the Carnegie Mellon University police department. Prior to that, he served as a patrol officer in Ohio Township.

He holds certifications as a patrol sergeant, field training officer, firearms instructor and crime prevention unit manager.

“Mike was highly recommended by his chief and peers for all his special skills, professionalism and the enthusiasm and energy he brings to his job every single day,” police Chief David DiSanti said. “He brings a wide variety of talents and training that will be invaluable to the McCandless community.”

Cavaliere thanked DiSanti “for the value you see in me” and told council that being hired in McCandless “means so much to myself, my wife and my family.”

McCandless has 20 patrol officers, two detectives, four patrol sergeants, two lieutenants, six crossing guards and a civilian support staff.