A former Benson police officer has joined the Smithfield Police Department.
Officer Christopher Edward VanHalen worked for the Benson Police Department for 2 years before being hired recently by the Smithfield Police Department.
Officer VanHalen has been assigned to the patrol division.
He received his oath from Smithfield Mayor Andy Moore during the Nov. meeting of the Smithfield Town Council. VanHalen is a former member of the US Army. He is from the Fayetteville area.