WLPD officer becomes first woman promoted to patrol sergeant

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Elizabeth Schwartz became the first woman Tuesday promoted to sergeant in the patrol division at the West Lafayette Police Department.

Schwartz's elevation marks only the second time a woman has attained the rank of sergeant,

Cindy Marion, who is now retired, served as a sergeant in the detective division starting around 2010.

Sgt. Jason Philhower also was promoted to lieutenant of patrol division effective April 4, 2023.

Both Schwartz and Philhower have served in law enforcement for years, but their years of experience, a rigorous vetting process and approval from the WLPD allows them to be elevated to their respective higher ranks.

"It's an extremely competitive process," Police Chief Troy Harris said at the ceremony. "(They took) a written promotional exam, which they studied for for months and months, I'm sure. (There was) an interview with our Police Merit Commission."

Harris said their lengths of service and their average of the past three years of performance evaluations were also taken into consideration.

"We understand that leadership is not just about being in charge," Harris said. "But it's about inspiring others to do their best work, serving with honor and upholding the values of our department."

Margaret Christopherson is a reporter for the Journal & Courier. Email her at mchristopherson@jconline.com and follow her on Twitter @MargaretJC2.

This article originally appeared on Lafayette Journal & Courier: Elizabeth Schwartz is the first female patrol sergeant at WLPD