The Idaho Falls Police Department is pleased to announce the recent promotions of Officer Eric Andersen to the rank of sergeant and Dispatcher Amanda Sterling to the position of dispatch supervisor. Both promotions went into effect May 28, 2017.

Sgt. Andersen was hired by the Idaho Falls Police Department in 1992. He left the department briefly in 2006 for employment with another organization, and returned to the department in 2007. He has a Master’s Certificate from Idaho Post.  He has served in both the Investigations and Patrol Divisions and received a Captain’s Commendation in 2014.

Idaho Falls Police Chief Mark McBride states, “Eric has the skills, knowledge of the law and leadership values that will enhance the efficiency of the department and further positive relationships with the public.”

Amanda Sterling was a detention officer with the Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office from 2004 to 2007. The Idaho Falls Police Department hired her in 2010 as a dispatcher.  Sterling is a level 3 communications specialist through Idaho Post.  In 2016, she was recognized as the Crisis Intervention Team Dispatcher of the Year.

“Amanda’s proficiency, skills and devotion to public safety has provided a good foundation for her leadership in the dispatch center,” states Chief McBride.

A four-member command staff comprised of lieutenants and police captain evaluated the seven candidates applying for the sergeant position. (Officer Leendert Van Hulten passed away earlier this year but was symbolically included as one of the seven candidates.) Each candidate was considered equally under the merits of the City Policy IX which states, “All promotions or upgrading to an advanced classification will be made on the basis of qualifications, ability, attitude, aptitude, education, performance and work habits. Everything else being equal, employees of longest service will be given preference.” 

Sterling was selected after undergoing an eight-panel review, comprised of representatives from the City’s Human Resources Department, Sheriff’s Office, as well as supervisory staff from dispatch and the Idaho Falls Police Department.  

Media Note: For additional information regarding this release, contact Kerry Hammon. 

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