To serve and protect

During the early part of this year, I made the decision to apply to be the chief of police at the Sandusky Police Department. This was a difficult decision for me, one that without the support of my family, I would have never made. I loved my job at the Erie County Sheriff's Office. I enjoyed going to work every day, my co-workers were some of the best you could ask for, and the support we had from the community was great. But the opportunity to become the police chief of my hometown was too appealing not to try. I turned in my application and began preparing for the interview when COVID-19 struck. Life has a funny way of keeping you in check. I was so excited for the interview, but there was something far more important taking place worldwide. Those co-workers I talked about at the sheriff's office, they continued coming to work every day while the rest of the world locked down. We had a community to protect, and we took that responsibility seriously. Several months later, I finally got the interview scheduled again. I met with the search committee, the city manager, and then I was formally offered the position. The pandemic and the effect it had on the nation certainly made my decision tougher. Do I leave the sheriff's office for a new challenge? Is this the right time? I asked these questions to myself over and over again. I decided to do it and I could not be happier with my decision. I have been the chief for more than two months now. I could not be more excited to work alongside the men and women of this department. I have witnessed their work ethic, dedication, their commitment to the profession, the department and the community. They strive to provide the community with the best service possible. They work very hard. They deserve your support. I have witnessed the outstanding support of this community in my brief tenure as chief. The department has received thank you cards, Christmas cards, phone calls, emails, messages over social media, food deliveries and a whole lot of baked goods for the officers over the last few weeks. It makes me proud to see the impact your kind gestures — the friendly waves and handwritten thank you cards — have on the staff. The officers really appreciate it. Thank you so much for the overwhelming support. I always try to stay strong when faced with adversity — adapt and overcome, as the saying goes. Last year was filled with adversity. This year has taught me to look for something to be grateful for. I am grateful for my family, for my friends, for my staff, for my former co-workers at the sheriff's office, for the support of the community and for the opportunity to serve as the police chief for the city I love. I look forward to 2021. I look forward to continuing to learn the day-to-day responsibilities of my new position. I look forward to working with our local law enforcement partners. I look forward to continuing to build on the foundation that former Chief John Orzech left at the department. I look forward to seeing old friends and meeting new ones at community events. I look forward to warmer weather. I look forward to celebrating Cedar Point's 150 year anniversary. I look forward to the end of the pandemic. Most of all I look forward to putting 2020 in the rearview mirror. My goal for the new year is to ensure the city is a safe place to live, work and play. I will work every day to continue to the level of excellence that Chief Orzech established. The Sandusky Police Department will continue to be an agency the community and the leadership of this city can be proud of. The men and women of the department are committed to this. But it is not possible without the help and support of the community. Please join us in making 2021 the best year yet. I wish everyone a happy and healthy new year.