The Northampton Borough Police Department roster will soon be at full strength.

The police force was down several officers due to retirements and dismissals, resulting in a loss of manpower.

Earlier this month, borough council appointed Christopher Frederick of Palmerton to a full-time position with the police department. The starting salary for a full-time police officer in Northampton is $44,013, according to borough manager Gene Zarayko.

Frederick will have to pass the physical and psychological test before he puts on a uniform and badge.

Zarayko said Frederick, who is currently a part-time officer for the Walnutport Police Department, could be working sometime in March, pending the outcome of his tests.

A graduate of Lehighton High School, Frederick earned a degree from Lackawanna College. He also went through police academy training.

Council and the administration interviewed the top candidates for the vacant police post before council's first February meeting.

Councilman Anthony Lopsonzski Sr. said the hiring of Frederick will give the full-time police officers a deserved rest, since they were filling in on shifts resulting from the vacancy.