Sgt. Joseph L. Eckenrod (Junior) started his career in law enforcement in 1994, as a Security Policeman, in the United States Air Force. He was stationed at Altus Air Force Base and has served in such foreign lands as South Korea and Saudi Arabia. After fulfilling his military obligation, he returned to Johnstown, to pursue a career as a civilian police officer.

  In January 2000, he became a member of the Johnstown Police Department.
Sergeant Eckenrod was assigned to the patrol section, working the 12-8 shift. In 2007, he was assigned to the Bureau of Criminal Investigations (BCI).  He is a former member of the Johnstown/Richland S.E.R.T. Team Serving from 2000-2008.  He also is one of the departments Fire Arms Instructors. He has received numerous commendations for outstanding police work.

  Sgt. Eckenrod has also received training from the United States Air Force, Pennsylvania State Police, National Tactical Officers Association, the Beretta Armorer Academy, Optac International, the National Tactical Officers Association, as well as, many in house training sessions within the Johnstown Police Department and other law enforcement agencies.

  Sgt. Eckenrod has obtained an Associates Degree in Human Services/Law Enforcement from Cambrua County Community College, which is currently now Pennsylvania Highlands Community College. In 2001, he was also inducted to the National Dean's List, as well as, Who's Who in American Junior Colleges.

  In 2008, Sergeant Eckenrod completed his Bachelors Degree in Criminal Justice through American Intercontinental University, graduating Summa Cum Laude. In 2009, Sgt. Eckenrod completed his Masters in Business Administration Degree with a focus on Operations Management through American Intercontinental University.  He is currently pursuing a Doctorial degree.
Sgt. Eckenrod received his promotion to Sergeant in Jan. 2012.

  Along with his duties as a police officer, Sgt. Eckenrod is an Adjunct Instructor of Criminal Justice at Pennsylvania Highlands Community College.