Newton Police Department welcomes two new officers

Two new officers were recently sworn in and welcomed to the Newton Police Department. Austin Van Manen and Alex Latcham are both undergoing field training and will be attending the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy in the future.

Van Manen is a Newton native who has called the community home his entire life. While he doesn't have any previous experience in law enforcement, he is excited about the opportunity and wants to continue helping people.

"I get to help others when they are in a time of need," Van Manen said.

While Van Manen may not have served in law enforcement, he has served his country. Four years in the U.S. Army as a fire support specialist with deployments to the middle east contributed to his decision to pursue law enforcement.

"I’m a very easy going and approachable person and I’m always here to help out with whatever I can," Van Manen said.

Latham does have experience in the field having worked at the Newton Correctional Facility and as a reserve police office with the Knoxville Police Department. Hailing from Des Moines, he was attracted to many of the positive qualities displayed at the NPD.

"The Newton Police Department is known for professionalism and integrity," Latcham said.

Latcham enjoys seeing people waving at officers while they are on patrol and getting to interact with the community.

"I am very social. I like to talk to people and I am a huge sports person. Go Yankees!" Latcham said.

Latcham said he has always wanted to be in law enforcement because being a police officer is very unique. To work toward that goal, he is currently studying criminal justice at Des Moines Area Community College.

"I have always aspired to be a police officer ever since I was little," Latcham said.

Van Manen and Latcham will continue field training with the NPD before going to the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy. Both officers look forward to the ability to help people in the community.

“We were impressed by Alex and Austin’s strong background in public service and their desire to continue serving as police officers in our community. We are excited to have them join our team and look forward to many years of dedicated service from both of them," Newton Police Chief Rob Burdess said.

Contact Dustin Teays at 641-792-3121 ext. 6533 or dteays@newtondailynews.com