Tryon welcomes new police officer

Keyandre Thomas sworn in at Tuesday’s council meeting

TRYON—At Tuesday’s Town Council meeting, Keyandre Thomas was sworn in as Tryon’s newest police officer.

Thomas, 22, was hired in January 2023 as a public works employee for Tryon. During his initial job interview, he expressed to Town Manager Jim Fatland that he aspired to become a police officer.

Later that year, Fatland and Interim Police Chief Scott Holt approached Thomas about sponsoring him to attend a six-month Basic Law Enforcement Training Program. In July, Keyandre completed the program and graduated from Asheville Buncombe Technical Community College.

“My dream has always been to become a police officer,” said Thomas. “I am honored to be a part of the Tryon Police Department.”

The swearing-in ceremony, which took place in the Tryon Depot Community Room on September 17, was attended by a supportive gathering of Keyandre’s family and friends. A Celebration Dinner at the Harmon Field Cabin followed the ceremony.

Keyandre’s roots in Tryon run deep. He attended Tryon Elementary, Polk Middle School, and Polk County High School, where he played on the varsity basketball team. Despite his new role, he continues to nurture his passions for basketball and fishing.

He lives in Polk County with his partner, Brittany, and his son, Kingston, with a daughter on the way. The Town of Tryon looks forward to the positive impact Thomas will have on the community as he embarks on this new chapter in his career.

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