The Farmington Public Safety Department proudly welcomed two new officers during the December 16, 2024 City Council meeting last night. Bryce Neal and JR Solomon were officially sworn in as the newest members of the department. Public Safety Director Bob Houhanisin, formally welcomed the new officers, expressing confidence in their commitment to serving the community.

“We’re excited to have Officers Neal and Solomon join the Farmington Public Safety team,” said Director Houhanisin. “Their dedication and professionalism will help us continue providing the highest level of safety and service to our residents.”

According to Director Houhanisin, “Bryce wanted to the be the person that made people feel comfortable during bad situations.” 

Public Safety Officer Neal attended Wayne State University and during his studies he was a cadet with the Oakland County Sheriff's Department and then with the Milford Police Department.  Last year, Bryce was hired as a Public Safety Assistant and eventually applied for a PSO position.  Over the last year, Byce has attended the police academy, fire academy, medical first responder and competed field training.

Public Safety Officer Solomon pursued a degree in Criminal Justice at Wayne State University, during his time at Wayne State, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force as a firefighter and trained at the Louis F. Garland Fire Academy in San Angelo, Texas. Following his training in Texas, he served for three years overseas as a firefighter and driver/operator with the 31st Civil Engineer Squadron at Aviano Air Base, Italy. While serving, he completed his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Wayne State University. Upon separation from active duty in the Air Force he enlisted into the Michigan Air National Guard and currently serves with the 127th Civil Engineering Squadron at Selfridge Air Base.

He was driven by a strong sense of service and community, explained Director Houhanisin, who added that he was also inspired by his father who is a retired officer from the Dearborn Police Department.

“PSOs Neal and Solomon represent the future of the Farmington Public Safety Department, and I am proud to stand with them before you as they begin their careers,” Director Houhanisin said at the City Council Meeting.  “There is no noble a career then that of a Public Safety Officer. The job of a public safety officer is not easy. Not only will you be a police officer and firefighter, but you will be a counselor, a handyman, a listener, and be expected to fix whatever personal emergency someone may be experiencing at that moment.  You will experience joy and sadness, sometimes both in the same day.  But you will find no other profession to be as fulfilling or rewarding.”

Director Houhanisin promised to teach the new officers “The Farmington Way… Because that is who we are and what we represent. Congratulations, officers Neal and Solomon as you begin your journey protecting and serving the City of Farmington.”