Police Department History
In the early days of the Police Department, there was a marshal, authorized to preserve order, and a deputy, a person appointed to work for the Marshall and carry out his orders. Today the City’s Police Department includes a staff of almost 50 people to protect and serve the City of Highland Heights. Here, we celebrate a history of safety in our City.
Year Chief of Police
1990-Present James Cook
1973-1990 Keith Woodie
Police Timeline
1938
The first Police Chief was appointed and served until 1950.
1948
City Council passed an ordinance employing a part time police
officer at a salary of $150 per month.
1955
Ken Meyer became the first part-time policeman and eventually
became the first full-time policeman.
1970
The Police Department had 11 officers including a chief, lieutenant,
two sergeants and seven full-time patrolmen.
1977
The position of dispatcher was established.
1980
The Police Department had 16 officers, including a chief, lieutenant,
four sergeants, 10 full time patrolmen as well as three full-time dispatchers,
two administrative office personnel and four part-time patrolmen.
1984
The Police Department moved into the present Police and Fire
Department facility, which includes a 5-day jail facility located in the
Police Station.
1991
Department had 20 officers, that included chief, lieutenant,
five sergeants, 13 full-time patrolmen, as well as four full-time dispatchers
that allowed for 24/7 radio coverage for the City.
2001-2006
Police Department is able to keep up with the newest law enforcement
technology with the purchase of Mobile Data Terminal (MDT) computers in
vehicles, as well as in-car dash cameras, videoconferencing with Lyndhurst
Municipal Court and enhanced Emergency 9-1-1 system.
2007
Department is certified by the State of Ohio to operate its Jail
as a 12-day facility, which averages 400 prisoners annually.
2008
Department employs 49 people, including the chief, lieutenant,
five sergeants, 16 full-time patrolmen, four full-time dispatchers, three
administrative personnel, three part-time dispatchers, three part-time patrolmen,
eight auxiliary officers and six school crossing guards.