Meet Three New Faces on the Merriam Police Department

Published on September 20, 2023

You’ll see three new Merriam police officers at our community events – all wanting to make a difference in our City. 

Devin Newman, Sydney Schneider, and Gary Young recently joined the City’s police department and said they can’t wait to jump in and help make Merriam a safer community.

They join another four officers who started working for the City of Merriam in May. Merriam City Councilmembers met the seven new officers earlier this month and learned more about the officers and when they will start police academy training.

Merriam Police Major Chris Brokaw said he’s excited to see the seven new officers grow as they complete academy and field training. 

“I’m looking forward to seeing them develop over the next few months and learn how our police family and Merriam community work together to make Merriam the best place to live, work, and play,” Brokaw said. 

Five of the new officers – including Newman, Schneider, and Young – will start police academy training in October. 

Meet the New Officers

Devin Newman played football at Coffeyville Community College. After graduating, he helped care for his grandpa, who was in hospice. As a new Merriam police officer, Newman said he’s looking forward to giving comfort and help during a person’s time of need.

“A big thing for me is to impact lives for the better and help as many people as I can,” Newman said. “[Merriam] is a great work atmosphere, and I’ve had really good experiences in training – learning a lot and having mentors who truly care.”

Sydney Schneider grew up in Meriden, Kansas. She went to Barton Community College to play golf while earning her associate’s degree. She’s now pursuing her bachelor’s degree in criminal justice at Fort Hays State University. 

“I have a lot of support within this department,” Schneider said. “It’s the perfect place to not only learn and grow as a police officer but as a person as well. I look forward to protecting and serving Merriam residents with pride and respect for years to come.”

Gary Young was born and raised in Kansas City. He graduated from Hogan Preparatory Academy and attended Missouri Western State University. 

Young said he looks forward to serving our community.

“I absolutely love this city. A city this good will always be worth persevering and protecting, and that’s why I’m here,” Young said. “I’m determined to do my best for the City of Merriam while representing this department with the respect it deserves.”

Seven new Merriam police officers pose with Police Chief Darren McLaughlin.