Murfreesboro Police Celebrate Promotions and Heroic Service

Five officers promoted and one awarded for saving a baby's life in Murfreesboro.

In a significant ceremony held on March 22, 2024, at the Murfreesboro Police Department (MPD) headquarters, five dedicated police officers were elevated to the rank of Sergeant, as announced by MPD Chief Michael Bowen. In addition to recognizing these promotions, a special moment was reserved for Officer Robert Baer, who was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal for his heroic actions in saving the life of a one-year-old baby who was not breathing.

Chief Bowen expressed his pride in the officers serving under his command, highlighting Baer’s life-saving actions as indicative of the high caliber of individuals committed to the safety and well-being of the community within the agency. The promoted officers are Sgt. Troy Black, Sgt. Jonathan Brown, Sgt. Joel Campbell, Sgt. Connor Gavlick, and Sgt. Dominik Riley. Their promotions reflect their unwavering commitment to service and readiness to take on leadership roles within the MPD.

Sgt. Troy Black joined MPD in 2017 and has served in various capacities including the Special Operations Unit and as a Firearms/Less Lethal Instructor. With a rich background that includes serving in the Louisiana National Guard and working with the New Orleans Police Department, Black brings a wealth of experience to his new role.

Sgt. Jonathan Brown’s career with the Murfreesboro police began in 2008. Having served as a detective in property crimes and on the Vice Unit, Brown’s promotion is a testament to his dedicated service, including his time as a Task Force Agent with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation on the Human Trafficking Task Force.

Sgt. Joel Campbell, who started with MPD in 2018, is a Marine Corps veteran with a degree in criminal justice. His law enforcement career includes roles as a patrol officer, FTO, and member of the Special Operations Unit in Anniston, AL, before joining MPD.

Sgt. Connor Gavlick, employed by MPD since 2017, has been recognized for his life-saving efforts in a serious injury crash. A recipient of the 2022 STARS Award, Gavlick’s promotion underscores his commitment and dedication to public safety.

Sgt. Dominik Riley began his career at MPD in 2015 and has since taken on significant roles including Crisis Intervention Team officer and detective in the General Investigations and Special Investigation Divisions. His diverse background and education in criminal justice and psychology from the University of Memphis make him well-suited for his new responsibilities.

The promotion ceremony not only honored these officers’ past achievements but also marked the beginning of their journey in leadership positions, where they are expected to face new challenges and demands with the same dedication and commitment they have always shown.

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