Penn Hills grad, veteran newest Oakmont police sergeant

Jul. 20—Stephen Turpin signed up for the Marines to serve his country and later joined law enforcement to help local communities.

The 2005 Penn Hills High School graduate was rewarded for his civilian efforts via promotion to Oakmont police sergeant.

"I like the community," Turpin said after the recognition at Monday night's council meeting. "It's an honor to be a sergeant here."

Turpin, 35, of Penn Hills served in the Marines from 2005 to 2009 and reached the rank of sergeant. He then worked part-time as a patrolman for Springdale Township and Oakmont for a couple of years before taking a full-time position in the borough force in 2016.

"It was just something that, when I got out, I thought it was the best way I could give back to the community," Turpin said. "Use some of the stuff I learned in the military (like) serving, honor, courage and commitment."

Nearly a dozen of Turpin's supporters, including many relatives, attended Monday's meeting. He and his daughter, Grace Turpin, 16, shared a moment outside council chambers before heading off with everyone to celebrate.

Police Chief Michael Ford said Turpin is very deserving of the promotion.

"He's very reliable," Ford said. "He's great with community outreach and he's very knowledgeable."

Oakmont has eight full-time officers, including the chief and sergeant, and six part-time officers.

Turpin is the second in command of the department.

"I think Oakmont will be well-served by his dedication and his skills as a police officer," council President Patricia Friday said.

The promotion does come with a bump in pay. Those figures were not available Monday.

Michael DiVittorio is a Tribune-Review staff writer. You can contact Michael at 412-871-2367, mdivittorio@triblive.com or via Twitter .

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