La Porte County Sheriff John T. Boyd is announcing the recent hiring of three new Merit (Patrol) Deputies.  These deputies will fill open vacancies within the ranks of the Merit Division. The three deputies are scheduled to attend the fifteen (15) week Northwest Indiana Law Enforcement Academy (NILEA) basic recruit program later this year.     Twenty-three year old Deputy David A. Grimberg, a 2014 graduate of Boone Grove High School, attended Indiana University – Northwest Campus later earning a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.  He was previously employed by the Porter County Sheriff’s Office. Deputy Grimberg resides in Valparaiso. Twenty-two year old Deputy Austin D. Howell, a 2015 graduate of South Central High School, attended Indiana University – South Bend Campus where he studied business and economics.  He was previously employed by Horizon Bank. Deputy Howell resides in rural Noble Township. Twenty-three year old Kasz X. Billings, a 2014 graduate of South Central High School, enlisted in the United States Army and completed four years of active duty service.  He is now a member of the United States Army National Guard. Deputy Billings resides in rural Cass Township.