By JESSA PEASE / Staff Writer

PELHAM— Dozens of Pelham city officials and residents gathered at the Pelham Police Department Oct. 8 to celebrate the promotions of Lt. Davy Lott and Lt. David Rushton.

Lott and Rushton were both promoted to the rank of captain, the second in command at the Pelham Police Department under Police Chief Larry Palmer. The two officers, joined by their families, were sworn in under their new position.

“We are here to celebrate their accomplishments and wish them well in these new assignments,” Palmer said. “Their hard work and dedication to the Pelham Police Department has prepared them for this new job, however, this is a starting point. All that hard work prepared you for this task and now its time to take action.”

Lott began his career with the Jacksonville Police Department in November 1994, graduating from the Northeast Alabama Police Academy in April of 1995. He joined the Pelham Police Department in October of 1996.

Lott also graduated from the FBI National Academy in March 2008, in addition to obtaining his Bachelor of Science and masters in public administration from Jacksonville University.

Palmer said that throughout his 19 years serving Pelham, Lott has received many certifications and has held posted jobs in a variety of specialized areas and divisions.

“We are so proud of him,” Palmer said.  “It is an honor for me to make this promotion. Davy is an asset to the Pelham Police Department and the city of Pelham. He has a passion for this job. His ability to interact and interface with people is strong and is one of his best assets.”

Rushton worked as a part-time police dispatcher for the Montevallo Police Department from November 1989 to April 1991, beginning his law enforcement career with the Jacksonville Police Department in May of 1991.

The new captain graduated from the University of Montevallo Police Academy in November of 1990 and joined the Pelham Police Department in October 1993.

He gradated from the Southern Police Institute administrative officers course in May 2010. Rushton also earned his Bachelor of Science from Jacksonville University and his masters in criminal justice from Falkner University.

In 22 years on the Pelham Police force, he has received various training certificates and has held the distinction of commander of Shelby County Traffic Homicide Unit for eight years.

“His study in and the knowledge of the principles, procedures and statutes of the law enforcement are strong,” Palmer said. “It is a pleasure to work with David, and best of all, he is my friend.”