A Schuylkill Township police officer has been recognized by his boss for his participation in an investigation into the theft of copper wire.

Schuylkill Township Police Chief Frank DiMarco commended Officer Doug Litwhiler for his participation in a joint investigation with the Pennsylvania State Police and West Penn Township police into the theft of Verizion cable off poles in remote areas.

“Officer Litwhiler was able to obtain evidence that led to search warrants, which led to arrests,” DiMarco told the township supervisors Monday night. “He was able to combine what he found with evidence from the other departments. More arrests are to follow.”

DiMarco said he was able to save $110 on the purchase of ammunition for the department.

A $28,000 Morgan Foundation grant was used by DiMarco to purchase guns, a license plate reader, a speed-timing device and a computer system for a township police cruiser.

DiMarco asked the supervisors what they wanted to see most in 2024. They responded better enforcement of speeding.

“It’s terrible.” said new Supervisor Mike Boyle. “I was going 60 miles an hour, and someone blew past me like I was standing still. They must have been doing 75 or 80 on an icy road.”

Supervisor Gary Feathers said funds for officer overtime for speed enforcement is available from the North Central Highway Safety Administration. DiMarco said he will apply for those funds.

A resident asked if a Crimewatch program could be established in the township.

“If you see something, call 911,” DiMarco said, “That’s all Crimewatch is. It could be nothing, but it could be something.”

At their annual reorganization meeting, the supervisors reappointed DiMarco chief, Tony Stannell as sergeant at $22.50 per hour, and Litwhiler at $21.50 per hour. DiMarco and Litwhiler were also appointed as township code enforcement officers at $21.50 per hour.

The supervisors also voted for the police department to continue serving Middleport Borough for $24,999 for 2024.

Supervisor Charles Fayash was named the supervisors liaison to the police department.