Politics & Government

LOOK: Police Officers Sworn-In to New Posts

Retirements prompt openings, changes in the upper ranks of the department.

A couple of high-level retirements at the Lakewood Police Department have meant some promotions and a couple of openings for new police officers.

At a special swearing-in ceremony at Lakewood City Hall on Friday, the officers took their new posts.

“The Lakewood Police Department is honored today to be able to swear in four of our officers to new levels of supervisory responsibilities," said Lakewood Police Chief Timothy Malley. "Each of these officers has proven through their experience and determination to be excellent police officers and leaders within the department. 

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"They are each looking forward to their new duties and providing leadership to the department and service to our community.”

Capt. Anthony Ciresi, the head of the department’s detective bureau, retired after 33 years of service. Sgt. Gary Wynalek, who joined the department at the same time, is also retiring. 

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“(The retirements) created a cascade effect through the entire organization,” said Mayor Michael Summers. 

Capt. Ed Hassing, the current head of the traffic and patrol division, will now head the detective bureau.

Lt. Gary Sprague was promoted to replace him.

Sgt. Frank Scott Eschweiler was promoted to Sprague’s lieutenant post.

The officers participated in a competitive process for promotion which included a written examination, and an assessment exam by the Ohio Chiefs of Police, said Malley. 

At the completion of this process each were ranked according to their results and confirmed by the Lakewood Civil Service Commission.

Summers said the department was aware of the changes well in advance.

“Chief Malley had plenty of time to think through the organizational end of things,” he said, adding that changes in the pension funds offered incentives for the early retirements.

"Strong and effective leadership is essential to meeting Lakewood’s public safety goals of being safe and feeling safe," Summers added on Friday.

"These promotions reflect dedication, skill, knowledge, and commitment to our goals. I am honored to make these promotions and grateful for the dedication of these officers.”


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