Coopersburg Police Department swore in Jordan Sonka on Oct. 7 as a part-time officer to fill an opening caused by another officer's resignation in February.

Sonka, 23, was hired after graduating from the Police Academy in July. He also graduated from East Stroudsburg University with a bachelor's degree in sociology.

Originally studying sports management, he became interested in law enforcement when talking with his roommate about ESU's criminal justice program. After meeting with the department head, he made the decision to become a police officer.

“I wanted to be a person people can turn to for help,” said Sonka, who lives in Allentown.

“It's a great opportunity,” he said of working for the Coopersburg force. He said his goal is to find full-time employment.

Sonka will be filling the slot of an officer who resigned to work in North Catasauqua.

Sonka will ride with Officer Charles Wyckoff III during his training. “He seems to be doing well,” said Mayor Timothy Paashaus. “He's picking stuff up quickly.”