HAMPTON -- The town of Hampton has a new full time police officer on the duty roster.

The appointment of Officer Vitalijs Sorokins to full time status was made this week by Hampton Police Chief James Sullivan and the Hampton Police Department.

Officer Sorokins, who was originally hired as a part time police officer this past spring, was sworn in on Tuesday, December 2 by Hampton Town Clerk, Jane Cypher during a ceremony conducted in the selectmen's meeting room.

He was certified in May 2008 by the Concord-based State of NH Police Standards and Training Academy after completing a 200-hour training program, graduating as part of the 252nd Part-Time Officers School. In addition to the training he received at the NHPST Academy, Officer Sorokins successfully completed a 100-hour in-house training program through the Hampton Police Department, including firearms, handcuffing and Taser training. He joined the department in May along with eight other part time officers who were hired in preparation for the area's busy summer season.

Officer Sorokins served in the United States Army and was honorably discharged after completing his tour of duty in the Middle East. Currently a member of the New Hampshire National Guard, Officer Sorokins resides in Hampton with his wife, Tatsiana.