Two Merriam master police officers (MPO) were promoted to corporals. Cpls. Wes Waller and Aaron Simmons received their new badges at the Nov. 11 City Council meeting.

Cpl. Simmons said he’s excited to continue serving Merriam residents. He first started at the Merriam Police Department in 2012 and was promoted to MPO in 2016. He has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Kansas.

Cpl. Waller started at the Merriam Police Department in 2005 and was promoted to MPO three years later.

“I’m looking forward to working in this new role at the Merriam Police Department where I can continue to encourage, teach, and lead the officers of this department,” Cpl. Waller said.

Merriam Police Chief Darren McLaughlin said he's glad to have Cpls. Simmons and Waller on his leadership team.   

"They both have proved their ability to provide leadership through many of their assignments and special duties," Chief McLaughlin said. "I look forward to working with them both in their new roles."

Cpl. Aaron Simmons gets new badge.               Cpl. Simmons and his family with Merriam Police Chief                                                                                       Darren McLaughlin and Mayor Ken Sissom.

Cpl. Wes Waller gets new badge.                        Cpl. Waller and his family with Merriam Police Chief                                                                                             Darren McLaughlin and Mayor Ken Sissom.