Brandon Twp.- Ken Alderman is looking forward to helping keep kids out of trouble as the new school liaison officer.
Alderman, a deputy in the township for about the past four years, and employed by the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office for the past 22 years, is officially the new school liaison effective March 14.
‘I’m the school liaison, but I’m not just an officer? I’m a counselor, teacher, and parent for the kids,? Alderman said. ‘I wear many hats. It’s very important that students and citizens know we’re here to help. Kids think my job is to get them in trouble, but I always tell them my job is to keep them out of trouble.?
The school liaison officer solves juvenile crimes, counsels youth and puts on police programs throughout the district. The position was previously held by Arnie Terrell, who will remain in the township as a deputy on the day shift. OCSO Sgt. Pete Burkett explained that a normal rotation for officers in these positions is a maximum of 3-4 years and Terrell had six years at the position, the main reason Alderman is taking over. Terrell also has new duties relating to the deputies union, which will be time-consuming.
‘Arnie Terrell did a fantastic job,? said OCSO Sgt. Pete Burkett. ‘He was well-liked and a good detective and officer. Luckily, we can replace him with Ken, who has just as much experience with juvenile crime and working in the school system as Arnie did. He is a wonderful asset to our substation and Brandon Schools. He’s a great guy, we’re very lucky to have him.?
Alderman has previously served as a school liaison in the Lake Orion Schools for five years, and was a detective in Oxford for four years.
‘I enjoy working with students and with the school staff,? he said. ‘I want to make sure the kids are safe and comfortable going to school. I’m looking forward to working with the community.?