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Crown Point Welcomes New Firefighter, Police Officer

Crown Point Welcomes New Firefighter, Police Officer

Crown Point Mayor Pete Land, left, administers the oath of office to Firefighter Zachary Ruscitti, badge No. 89, during the Feb. 4, 2026, Board of Public Works and Safety meeting. Photo courtesy the City of Crown Point.

The City of Crown Point welcomed a new firefighter and police officer today, Wednesday, Feb. 4. Both first responders took the oath of office during the Board of Public Works and Safety meeting. 

Firefighter Zachary Ruscitti, badge No. 89, is a City of Crown Point resident with a strong background in public service. He previously served six years in the Illinois Army National Guard, gaining experience in teamwork, discipline and leadership. 

In addition to his military service, Ruscitti worked as a part-time firefighter/EMT in Illinois, where he developed foundational skills in emergency response and patient care. Ruscitti holds a bachelor’s degree from Indiana University East. 

Ruscitti’s interest in becoming a firefighter was inspired at a young age by his father, Brian Ruscitti, whose experience in the fire service helped shape his lifelong goal of becoming a career firefighter. 

He will be assigned to Turn 1, serving under the leadership of Battalion Chief Scott Abraham. Ruscitti is the 22nd firefighter hired under Mayor Pete Land, and his first day on duty was Tuesday, Feb. 3. 

“We’re proud to welcome Firefighter Ruscitti to the Crown Point Fire Department,” said Fire Chief Mark Baumgardner. “His military service, fire service experience and commitment to continued learning will be an asset to our department and the community we serve.” 

Crown Point Mayor Pete Land, left, swears in Police Officer Zachary Buss, badge No. 136, during the Feb. 4, 2026, Board of Public Works and Safety meeting. Photo courtesy the City of Crown Point. 

Police Officer Zachary Buss, badge No. 136, was born and raised in Lowell. He is a 2018 Lowell High School graduate. He worked part-time with the Crown Point Parks Department from 2016 to 2020 before joining the Crown Point Police Department as a general services officer (GSO). 

In 2023, Buss left Crown Point to pursue his dream of becoming a police officer. He served as a patrolman with the Highland Police Department from May 2023 to January 2026. He is a 2023 graduate of the Northwest Indiana Law Enforcement Academy, Class 20-53. 

Buss’ first day on duty was Monday, Jan. 26. 

“We’re proud to welcome Officer Buss back to the Crown Point Police Department. His experience as a GSO gives him a great headstart as he joins our Patrol Division,” said Police Chief Ryan S. Patrick.