A Horsham Township police officer is leaving the force after more than three decades.
The Horsham Township Council honored Detective John Austin Monday night with a plaque feting his “consistent dedication.”
“You will be missed professionally. We'll keep you around as a friend,” said council President Mark McCouch.
Find out what's happening in Hatboro-Horshamwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Township Manager Bill Walker said Austin, born and raised in Horsham, became a police cadet in 1978. That position, he explained, has since been replaced by the dispatcher position.
Austin became a police officer in 1981 and was promoted to detective in 1994, Walker said.
Find out what's happening in Hatboro-Horshamwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
“He has been a very dedicated and loyal employee to this township,” said the township manager.
Police Capt. Joe Repkoe also heaped praise on Austin.
“We're not going to be able to replace John,” he said.
Repkoe said he has mixed emotions.
“I'm sad to see him go, but happy to see him move on to his next step, with the Montgomery County Sheriff's Department,” he said.
Austin's last day on the job is Thursday.
“It's been a great ride. I'm not going far," Austin said. "I'm just going to Norristown. I'll be around."
