The South Russell Police Department, lead by Chief James Wetzel, is comprised of 8 full-time and 6 part-time officers. The average years of service for SRPD officers is just over 14 years.
The South Russell Police Department is located at 5205 Chillicothe Rd, just East of the Village Hall Complex.
James Wetzel Police Chief
Biography:
Jim Wetzel joined the South Russell Police Department in 1981 as a Patrolman. He was promoted to Lieutenant in 1998 and to Chief in 1999. Prior to serving South Russell Village, Jim was a member of the Mentor on the Lake, Mentor, Bainbridge, and Bentleyville Police Departments.
During his 23-year career, Chief Wetzel has earned numerous Departmental Commendations and the Senatorial Award of Excellence from the State of Ohio. Chief Wetzel was named the South Russell Village Employee of the Year in 1997.
Chief Wetzel is a Licensed Firearms Instructor and is an active participant in rifle and pistol matches. Jim has won a staggering number of gold (43), silver (14), and bronze (5) medals at the State of Ohio Law Enforcement Olympics over the past thirteen years. This summer, he represented South Russell Village at the Canadian-American Police Olympics where he won two gold and two silver medals.
