John Day Police Chief Richard Gray, left, offers a welcoming handshake to new officer Tyler Smith.

JOHN DAY – A new police officer, Tyler Smith, has been added to the roster at the John Day Police Department.

Smith is new to Grant County, arriving from Eugene almost two months ago to fill a vacant post. This is his first law enforcement position.

He has a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and a minor in homeland security from Western Oregon University in Monmouth. He is also a member of an academic group, the WOU chapter of the National Society of Leadership and Success.

Smith said his “strong desire to help maintain a happy and safe community” was the main reason he chose to purse a career in law enforcement, as well as an interest in helping and protecting people who can’t do so themselves.

So far on the John Day force, he said he’s enjoying helping those in need, and appreciates all the training and learning experiences involved.

When not on the beat, Smith has a wide range of hobbies he enjoys: hunting, fishing, camping, snowboarding, wakeboarding, woodworking and furniture making, painting and drawing, as well as spending time with his family.

That family includes his wife, Erin, and two daughters, Kadence, 6, and Finley, 11 months.

Although not from Grant County, Smith has many family members here, and has spent a lot of time visiting the area over the years.

“I love the beautiful views and surroundings,” he said, “and the small town feel and friendliness from the citizens of John Day.”

“It truly feels like home here,” Smith said.