Third female sworn in as Tipp Police Officer

Clayton Hunter is over the moon and honored

Being a female in a male-dominated field can certainly pose its challenges, but Tipp City’s Hunter Clayton is poised to meet those obstacles head-on and ultimately succeed in the process.

Clayton began her duties as a patrol officer for the Tipp City Police Department on May 18, thus becoming the third female sworn officer on staff, according to Deputy Chief Jack Davis. The department consists of 24 sworn officers and three civilian employees.

“I was over the moon to be hired on with TCPD. Tipp City has always been home, and I am very honored to be given the chance to work and serve in my hometown,” said Clayton.

Following graduation from Tippecanoe High School, Clayton attended the Sinclair Police Academy because she was interested in a career where she could serve the community and aid people most in need of assistance. She was employed for five years with the Premier Health Police Department at Upper Valley Medical Center prior to beginning her tenure with TCPD.

“I enjoy being a resource for the community and making a positive impact,” she said, “I'd say my strengths are being organized, outgoing, and following through on what needs to be done.”

According to Davis, Clayton came highly recommended by her previous supervisor, excelled throughout the interview process, and impressed during the background investigation. Her peers consistently spoke highly of her character, work ethic, and professionalism, and several indicated she would be an excellent fit for the department, he said, adding her proven track record, leadership experience, and desire to serve the residents of Tipp City made her a standout candidate.

“Hunter brings a strong combination of intelligence, energy, professionalism, and a genuine commitment to serving others,” said Davis. “She is very community-focused and understands the importance of building positive relationships with the people she serves. Her ability to communicate effectively, solve problems, and remain engaged with the community will serve her well as a police officer. As a Tipp City resident, she is proud of and invested in the community she now has the opportunity to serve.”

As a patrol officer, Clayton will be responsible for responding to calls for service, conducting proactive patrols, engaging with community members, enforcing laws and ordinances, and helping ensure the safety and well-being of city residents and visitors. Like all officers, she will be held to the same professional standards and will have the department's support as she begins her career with Tipp City, according to Davis.

Although the numbers remain small in comparison to their male counterparts, the sight of female officers on patrol is becoming much more commonplace these days. Throughout her career in law enforcement, Clayton said she hasn’t personally felt she’s been treated differently because of her gender but recognizes there may be situations in the future where she may encounter such challenges. Should that occur, she said she’s committed to continuing to demonstrate her abilities through professionalism, dedication, and strong work performance.

“Being a female police officer in a male-dominated career means I'm doing the same job and meeting the same expectations as everyone else, but sometimes I'm more aware that people notice my gender first,” she admitted. “There are times when I feel I have to prove myself before people fully trust my abilities. I've dealt with assumptions about what I can or can't do, but I've also had opportunities to show strengths that make me effective at the job, such as communication, empathy, and problem-solving. The work can be demanding, but it's rewarding to know I'm helping people and serving my community. Over time, I've learned to let my professionalism and performance speak for themselves.”

As her career progresses, Davis said Clayton will have opportunities to pursue specialized assignments and leadership roles within the department, including investigations, School Resource Officer (SRO) positions, and promotional opportunities.

For now, Clayton is focused on learning and growing as an officer. In the future, she’d like to become an SRO so that she can work more closely with students and build positive relationships in the community.

“I believe it's important to uphold the law while also being someone the community can trust and approach,” Clayton said. “I want to help make the community a better place and be a positive influence, especially for young people and those interested in law enforcement.”

Clayton has been married to her high school sweetheart for four years, and together they have two children – a daughter and son. When not patrolling the Tipp City streets, she enjoys spending time with family and friends. She’s also passionate about staying active by working out, playing and watching sports, and spending time in the outdoors.

“We are excited to welcome Hunter to the Tipp City Police Department,” Davis said. “Her law enforcement experience, leadership background, familiarity with the community, and enthusiasm for public service make her a valuable addition to our team. We are confident she will make a positive impact both within the department and throughout the community she serves.”