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.

Past Police Chiefs

  • 1990-2022: James Cook
  • 1973-1990: Keith Woodie
  • 1950-1973: John Herman
  • 1938-1950: Fay Dalrymple

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, 2 sergeants and 7 full-time patrolmen.

1977

The position of dispatcher was established.

1980

The Police Department had 16 officers, including a chief, lieutenant, 4 sergeants, 10 full time patrolmen as well as 3 full-time dispatchers, 2 administrative office personnel and 4 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, 5 sergeants, 13 full-time patrolmen, as well as 4 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, video conferencing 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.

2022

Department employs 50 people, including:
  • Chief
  • Lieutenant
  • 5 - Sergeants
  • 16 - Full-Time Patrolmen
  • 4 - Full-Time Dispatchers
  • 3 -  Administrative Personnel
  • 4 - Part-Time Dispatchers
  • 3 - Part-Time Patrolmen
  • 4 -  Auxiliary Officers
  • 6 - School Crossing Guards