West Chester narrows police chief search

The position, which can pay between $73,600 to $114,252, opened in early May when Erik Niehaus resigned as police chief to take a position as a partnered attorney with law firm Haughey & Deters.

Lt. Col. David Kelly, who was appointed interim chief, told trustees in May that he wished to remove his name from further consideration for the position. Kelly will return to his role of assistant chief of police when a new chief is named.

The field of 24 applicants was narrowed based upon qualifications and experience, according to Judi Boyko, the township’s administrator. West Chester officials are focused on finding a candidate who has community policing, command and operational experience, but also demonstrates a broader skill set, she said.

“The township seeks an individual with the required law enforcement experience in all areas of operations,” Boyko said. “Equally important is the candidate’s ability to execute and implement strategies within the broader township organization and to successfully and effectively promote and practice core values consistent with township-wide goals.”

Community stakeholders will be asked to review of the applicants, Boyko said. While the application period has officially passed, West Chester Twp. will continue to accept applications until the chief of police position is filled.

The list of candidates will be further narrowed by early fall. A recommended candidate is projected to be identified and brought before the township’s board of trustees by late November. Candidates still under consideration are: