Officer Ash growing comfortable in new role within Bridgeport (West Virginia) schools

“I enjoy it a lot. I love working with the kids every day and giving them a role model to look up to,” Ash said. “I actually went on paternity leave for six weeks, but came back and finished (2022-23) and came back this year fresh.

“When you have a child of your own, it opens up aspects of things — like what kids are going through. It definitely opens your eyes.”

Ash said he has enjoyed talking with students in both schools and stays in contact with his fellow officers if they are responding to cases involving a juvenile. His daily schedule can fluctuate routinely based on class discussions, including about vaping or drugs, or activities.

“Once you build a rapport with the kids, you can get them to come talk to you if they are having issues at home or anywhere else. You have to make them feel like they can trust you,” Ash said. “I have plenty of kids who come to me on a daily basis and just talk about things they’re struggling with.

“I haven’t had any incidents of drugs or alcohol, but I encourage all families to make sure the students are not getting into those habits.”

Hamrick had patrolled Ash’s schools along with Bridgeport High and Johnson Elementary Schools since 2005. She still patrols the halls daily with therapy dogs Connor or Chloe.

“We talk on a daily basis,” Hamrick said. “Some of our issues overlap sometimes and sometimes we bounce things off of each other.

“He’s picked up really well the school environments. It takes a little bit to come from patrol into a school culture, but he’s picked it up really, really well.”

At the time of Ash’s appointment, Police Chief Mark Rogers expressed faith in Ash before Bridgeport City Council.

“He and Officer Hamrick have a rather sizable task in front of them, but I’m sure both of them are up to it and will do an awesome job,” Rogers said in March 2023. “Austin impressed on (Rogers and Deputy Chief Doug Yost) his very sound decision-making ability, and I think he’ll be well-received in the school system and absolutely do the Bridgeport Police Department proud.

“We have a duty to make sure to put personnel where we believe they will be utilized the best, and I think at this time Austin will do a great job for us in the school system,” Rogers said.

Ash also said he has interest in bringing a therapy dog back to the other schools, with him as a handler.

“Down the road, it’s definitely something I’m looking to do,” Ash said. “Seeing the impact of how Officer Jamie and her dogs help the kids in certain situations is definitely beneficial.”

Each August, prevention resource officers statewide attend a weeklong conference for re-certification and discussion on current topics.

Ash grew up mentored and supported by a few prevention resource officers while attending Doddridge County Schools. He’s also worked with students and families locally during National Night Out, Summer Kick-off, school or community sports games and other social events.