Sowa joins police department

Officer Clara Sowa began working at Holyoke Police Department on May 10 and has hit the ground running during her first several weeks of field training.

Beginning in January, HPD sponsored Sowa at the Otero Junior College Police Academy.

With her in the department, there are now four officers in Holyoke, and there’d be a spot for a fifth if the right person came along.

“I’m glad to have her here,” said Chief Doug Bergstrom, noting that it’s been a couple of years since there was a female officer, so Sowa will be a great addition to the team.

He also said she will be receiving school resource officer training so that she can serve the community in that capacity.

Sowa has about five years of experience in corrections, including facilities in New Mexico, Trinidad and Sterling.

Now that her three adult children are grown, she is excited to pursue a career that really excites her. As an officer, she is looking forward to getting to know people and being part of the community.

Sowa grew up in Byers. “I love small towns,” she said, adding that so far she’s had a good first impression of Holyoke.

When she’s not working, Sowa has fun hanging out with her Great Dane and Yorkie.