Langley’s newest police officer graduated from the state-run academy Feb. 19.

Lucas Adkins, a former reserve and provisional officer for the Island County Sheriff’s Office and Town of Coupeville, had little time to celebrate before his first day on the job, Feb. 21.

The first shift wearing the black and blue of the Langley Police Department was a busy one as the city buzzed with activity during Langley Mystery Weekend. Aside from the fictional murder at the center of the mystery, Police Chief Dave Marks said it was quiet in the Village by the Sea.

“I did the same thing when I graduated,” Marks said. “I think I started the next day. It’s a small department.”

Adkins joining the department gives Marks three officers and himself to rotate through the week. For the first time in a year, the city has nearly 24-hour coverage from its own department.

“It’s a lot easier to cover shifts,” Marks said.

The hiring of a fourth officer was the result of a police department review and the recommendation of Mayor Fred McCarthy, and the confirmation of the Langley City Council in early 2014.