Photo courtesy of Laurium Village Laurium Police Officer Daron Olson (left) receives congratulations on his promotion to Sergeant from Police Chief Kurt Erkkila. Olson was promoted earlier this week.
LAURIUM — A statement from the Laurium Village office said Officer Darron Olson was promoted to sergeant at the regular monthly council meeting on Tuesday.
Olson is a US Navy and Air Force veteran. He served in both the Persian Gulf War and Operation Iraqi Freedom. He graduated from the police academy in 2002, worked full-time for the village of Calumet, as well as a part-time officer for the village of Laurium before becoming a full-time officer in 2005. He also did part of the Drug Alert team.
Laurium Police Chief Kurt Erkkila said Sergeant Olson has shown great ability in his job.
“Darren is the best man for the job,” said Erkkila. “His knowledge and experience will enable him to help lead the department.”
The statement said a constable is the most common type of officer within a police unit. They help patrol the streets and respond to accidents and crimes.
“As Sergeant” the statement says, “Olson will still serve as an officer, but will also be able to train new recruits and work with the leader on various projects and initiatives.”
Following the retirement of former Chief Constable Robert Kyllonen on January 29, 2022, Sergeant Erkkila has been promoted to replace him. While the department is still considering adding an additional officer in the fall, Olson was promoted to sergeant to train the new recruit.
The Laurium Police Department was created when the village was incorporated in 1895, the statement said. The department patrols 11 miles of village streets and also responds to various calls throughout Houghton County.
Olson was sworn in as a sergeant on Thursday, February 17, 2022.
