DICKINSON — In a special pinning ceremony held recently, the Dickinson Police Department (DPD) marked a significant transition by promoting four officers within its command structure. This move is part of one of the department’s most substantial command-level transitions in decades. According to Police Chief Joe Cianni, this will be the conclusion of the many promotions that took place this year.

“Today, our turbulent journey concludes with the final pieces of the promotional puzzle in place,” said Cianni before commencement. He emphasized all the changes DPD has recently experienced have been trying but achievable due to the strength each and every member of the department brings.

Senior Officers Aaron Bates, Evan Kinto, Mike Legler, and Officer Jesse Kubik were celebrated for their promotion to Police Corporal. The ceremony, held under the mantra ‘Strength Through Unity,’ acknowledged the individual triumphs of the officers, each celebrated for their unique contributions to the force.

Aaron Bates, a graduate of Oregon City High School and veteran of the US Air Force, joined the Dickinson Police in May 2018. Bates, who was honored for his service, has been instrumental in various roles, including as a Field Training Officer and member of the Southwest Tactical Team. He now assumes the role of Patrol Corporal for C-Shift.

Evan Kinto, holding over nine years of law enforcement experience, is a Portland State University alumnus. Kinto, recognized for maintaining his patrol skills while working in the Investigative Division, has earned several awards, including the Chief’s Award of Excellence. He steps into the role of Patrol Corporal for A-Shift.

Mike Legler, a North Dakota native with a background in automotive technology and construction, pursued a career in law enforcement, earning an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Phoenix. Legler, who has spent his entire 13-year career in the Patrol Division, is known for his expertise as a Taser Instructor and Field Training Officer. He now takes on the responsibilities of Patrol Corporal for D-Shift.

Jesse Kubik, a Dickinson native and University of North Texas graduate, joined the department in 2021. Kubik’s journey in law enforcement, transitioning from education to practice, leads him to assume the position of Police Corporal for B-Shift.

The ceremony, marked by personal pinning and the involvement of family members, symbolizes a renewed era for the Dickinson Police Department as it navigates significant changes and looks toward a future of strengthened community service and leadership.

Manny is a journalist with a diverse background in communications. Born and raised in El Paso, Texas, he earned his degree in the DFW area before venturing to New York City. There he worked as an ethnic media reporter, covering local issues and immigration news. A long history of dedication to sensitive reporting, Manny’s journalistic journey has led him to Dickinson where he takes on the role of a hard news reporter.