Patrolman Travis Roberts is the newest member of Parsons City Police Department. After Chief Bill Rowe’s retirement, Roberts is one of two officers on the force.
He was hired during the July 24 Parsons City Council meeting. His first day on the job was Friday, August 17.
Roberts’ career in the field criminal justice is well rounded and diverse. After graduating from Tucker County High School, Roberts attended West Virginia Wesleyan College where he graduated with a bachelor degree in criminal justice.
After college, he began his fieldwork at the Davis Center. From there, he worked in the child support enforcement department of Randolph County’s Department of Health and Human Resources office. Much of his work for that position included preparation of legal documents and obtaining financial information to collect child support payments.
“I feel like I’ve seen all aspects of criminal justice, from court side, to preparing documents, and getting involved with the judges,” Roberts said.
Prior to this law enforcement position, he was the Chief Deputy of the Tucker County Sheriff Department for two and a half years. He also graduated from the State Police Academy in 2010 as part of the 143rd Basic Class.
While Roberts works part time for the City of Parsons, he will continue his work as a probation officer in the 22nd Judicial Circuit. “I left the Tucker County Sheriff’s Department because I had a good opportunity in probation,” he said.
While working in the probation office, he had the opportunity to work as an Intensive Supervision Officer. “Through the program I was able to more intensely supervise individuals, that in my opinion, need closer supervision,” Roberts said.
As for his work in Parsons, “I just look forward to getting involved with community and local individuals who try to make the community the best that it can be,” Roberts said.
Currently a Parsons resident, Roberts grew up Hambleton until he was five. He has lived in Parsons for almost 30 years.
“I like to help people and give back to the community by providing a safe environment for residents and children,” Roberts said. “There’s no community that is 100 percent safe from all crime. You just do your best to deter crime before it happens.”
Roberts views his relationship with the community and his years of living in Parsons as an asset. “Growing up in the community and previously working as an officer here, I think gives me a little bit of a unique advantage,” he said. “You can form relationship with individuals in the community over time.”