RPD taking applications for vacancy

RUSSELLVILLE — The city has accepted a letter of resignation from patrol officer Antoine Suggs.

Police Chief Chris Hargett said Suggs has taken a different job elsewhere.

Hargett said applications will be accepted through April 11. He said four applications have been received so far.

“We’re controlled by Civil Service,” Hargett explained of the hiring process, “so the applications are sent to the Civil Service Board. Once the deadline has passed and all the applications are sent in, then interviews will be set up.”

He explained a background check is done on all applicants, and they must take an agility test. Any applicants who aren’t already certified, or have a four-year college degree, must take the BAT (Basic Aptitude Test), which is administered at Northwest Shoals Community College.

Hargett expects the vacancy will be filled during the second city council meeting in April – scheduled for April 21.

A successful candidate must enroll in the Police Academy within six months of being hired. The academy lasts around 14 weeks.

Hargett said once an applicant has completed the Police Academy, they’ll be making $20.54 per hour.

There are no other vacancies in the Russellville Police Department at this time.