The Circleville Police Department has wrapped up a busy and productive 2024, with notable accomplishments, community involvement, and ongoing training efforts aimed at enhancing public safety. Below is a comprehensive overview of the department’s activities, staffing, and key initiatives over the past year.
Personnel Changes and Leadership Development
The department saw changes in its staffing structure, with several positions still vacant. Despite this, the leadership team, headed by Chief Kenny Fisher, continued to strengthen the department’s presence and efficacy in the community. Notably, Chief Fisher completed the prestigious FBI LEEDA Trilogy Award after completing leadership training courses, including the Supervisor Leadership Institute, Command Leadership Institute, and Executive Leadership Institute. Sergeant Eric Nicholson and Sergeant Matthew Harrell also participated in leadership training, ensuring continued development in the department’s leadership.
Employee recognition was an important part of 2024, with Sergeant Fisher being promoted to Chief of Police. Officers Ryan Mays and Matthew Harrell were both promoted to the rank of Sergeant, and Officer Tyler Hopkins was honored by Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) for leading the department in OVI arrests.
Patrol and Communications Activity
In 2024, the Circleville Police Department handled a total of 15,016 calls for service, with an average response time of just five minutes per call. The Communications Center, which handles calls for police, fire, and emergency services, processed 20,740 calls for service, including 221 mutual aid requests with the Pickaway County Sheriff’s Office, Ohio State Patrol, and other surrounding agencies. Officers also issued 278 traffic citations, served 418 summons and subpoenas, and arrested 273 individuals.
The department’s proactive efforts included 1,794 extra patrols, 718 business checks, and 601 well-being checks. These measures helped keep the community safe and fostered positive engagement with local businesses and residents.
K-9 Program Success
The Circleville Police K-9 Unit, led by Officer Tim Sanford and K-9 Dexter, made significant strides in 2024. Dexter, a four-year-old German Shepherd trained in narcotics detection, criminal apprehension, and more, was involved in 67 arrests, assisted in 51 agency calls, and located over 95 grams of methamphetamines, 125 grams of cocaine, and 108 grams of fentanyl and related compounds. Dexter’s contributions helped enhance the department’s efforts in fighting drug-related crime.
Training and Special Events
2024 also marked a year of significant training for Circleville police officers, ensuring they remain prepared for the evolving challenges in law enforcement. Officers received training in a variety of areas, including crisis intervention, active shooter responses, defensive tactics, and criminal interdiction. Leadership training, as mentioned, was also a major focus, fostering a strong foundation for the department’s future success.
Community engagement remained a top priority for the department throughout the year. Circleville Police actively participated in several community outreach programs and events, including National Night Out, Shop With a Cop, Kidsapalooza, Trick or Treat, and the Light Ohio Blue Police Week Caravan. These events helped foster strong relationships between officers and residents while promoting public safety and awareness.
Pumpkin Show Support and Mutual Aid
The department played a critical role in ensuring the safety of the 2024 Circleville Pumpkin Show, supported by local agencies like the Pickaway County Sheriff’s Office. The collaborative effort ensured a smooth and safe experience for attendees, showcasing the strength of mutual aid partnerships in the region.
Looking Ahead
As the Circleville Police Department enters 2025, the focus will continue on community safety, officer development, and maintaining effective operations. With a dedicated team, ongoing training, and a strong relationship with the community, the Circleville Police Department is well-prepared for the year ahead.
For more information on the department’s services, initiatives, or community programs, residents are encouraged to stay connected with the Circleville Police Department through their official channels.
