The Merrillville Police Department’s mission to serve and protect has reached new heights. Lawrence B. Jones of FOX & Friends has become Merrillville’s first auxiliary officer. Jones was sworn in during Tuesday’s Town Council meeting.

Jones is known for his signature storytelling and “man-on-the-street” segments, which focus on the impact of various issues on local communities. He co-hosts FOX & Friends and previously hosted Lawrence Jones Cross Country.

As an Auxiliary police officer, Jones will perform various duties, including participating in qualified ride-a-longs with police to help share what Merrillville officers experience and what the department can accomplish with limited funding, Police Chief Kosta Nuses said.

“Lawrence will be working closely with us to amplify our story, ensuring that the public understands who we are, what we stand for, and how we serve our community,” Nuses said. “In addition, his experience in K-9 training will also enhance our force as we continue to grow and evolve.”

Jones will attend a prebasic law enforcement training course that will grant him limited police powers that aren’t available to civilians.

“Larence’s role isn’t just about policing, it’s about fostering a deeper connection with the community, staying transparent, and showing that we’re always striving to improve,” Nuses said.

He believes Merrillville can gain national attention as Jones serves as an auxiliary officer.

“I want everybody in America to see what Merrillville is and see what we have to offer and come here,” Nuses said. “Show everybody how appealing Merrillville really is.”

Nuses and Jones built their connection through Baden K-9, a multi-service dog training company in Ontario, Canada. Baden trained all of Merrillville’s K-9 dogs. Baden and Jones partnered in 2023 to make a contribution that helped bring K-9 Yaga to the Merrillville Police Department. Nuses said Merrillville had received about $25,000 worth of dogs and services between the contributions from Baden and Jones.

“Jones has already made a significant impact on our Police Department, and we’re thrilled to have him serve as an auxiliary officer,” Town Council President Rick Bella said. “I’d like to thank Chief Nuses for coordinating this endeavor to strengthen our connection with the public by bringing more attention to The Heart of the Region.”

To help prepare Jones for his new role, First Tactical donated the uniform and boots he will wear as Merrillville’s first auxiliary officer.

“It’s wonderful to see how so many organizations have come together to make this important venture happen,” Bella added.