Credit: Bristol Twp. police
Three new Bristol Township police officers took their oaths Oct. 15, bringing backgrounds in athletics, academics and community service to the department.
Advertisements
Officers Luke Austermehle, Sierra Tarantino and Michael Motz were ceremonially sworn in before council, family members and fellow officers.
Police Chief CJ Winik told council the new officers are needed by the department and highlighted their backgrounds and accomplishments.
Austermehle grew up in Perkasie and graduated from Pennridge High School, where he competed in multiple sports with a focus on track and field, Winik said. He continues to enjoy weightlifting and running and is pursuing a degree in business administration. He also has an interest in early American history.
Advertisements
Austermehle recently received an athletic award during his police academy training.
Winik joked that Austermehle “outran everybody” before slowing down during a final run to allow an older officer to finish ahead of him.
Tarantino grew up in Holland and graduated from Council Rock South High School in 2019. A lifelong athlete, she played soccer in high school and college and also competed in track and lacrosse.
Advertisements
Tarantino earned an associate degree in criminal justice from Harcum College before transferring to Post University on a full academic and athletic scholarship. She later earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology. She also coached younger athletes.
Tarantino was raised in a military family, which Winik said instilled discipline, dedication and respect for service.
During police academy training, Tarantino was selected to serve in a sergeant position, Winik said.
Advertisements
Motz earned a bachelor’s degree from Penn State and completed police academy training at Temple University. He enjoys sports, fitness and hiking and told the township through his introductory biography that he looks forward to building positive relationships with Bristol Township residents.
The officers received applause from those gathered before joining council for photographs after their swearing in ceremonies.
“Congratulations to our new officers,” council President Craig Bowen said following the ceremony.
