ARCHBOLD … Archbold Police Chief Leo Wixom stands in front of a police sign on the outside of the police department building.
By: Renea Kessler
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
The Archbold Police Department has seen a shift with call volumes this past year. The department is down in service calls but are up in automobile crashes.
Calls have been the same over the years, however, there has been an increase in mental health crisis calls.
Through everything, the department has continued to do their best to serve the community in the way it needs.
Chief Leo Wixom explained that enforcing the law really has not changed, other than the fact that more technology is used to aid in enforcement.
Just like other agencies, the Archbold Police Department is in the hiring process and are still accepting applications.
They have had two patrolmen resign and totally leave law enforcement all together this year. There is a shortage of qualified people for recruitment everywhere right now.
Over the past year the department was able to secure several grants for body worn cameras, new radios, and body armor to provide to all the patrolmen.
There are some BIG plans in the making for next year at the department as well. Chief Leo Wixom is hoping and planning on starting a K-9 program at the department. He is also hoping to have members of the department on the SRT team within Fulton County.
The Archbold P.D. works very well with each other, keeps each other accountable, and are all an important part of the community.
“The department has integrity to rise above and serve their community better than anyone else.”
When asked what law enforcement means to you, Chief Wixom said, “To serve and protect our community no matter what we face and with integrity and respect that they deserve.”
“It is not just enforcement of the laws but to educate and serve the community in a way that they can understand and respect.”
Chief Wixom would like everyone reading this to know that this job is a calling for men and women who chose to serve.
“We love our communities and want to keep everyone safe. I am proud of all who have chosen this path and especially the men and women who I serve beside here at the Archbold Police Department, YOU all make this job worth it.”
He also gives a big THANK YOU to the community they serve, as the community supports them like no other!
Renea can be reached at
renea@thevillagereporter.com
