The News Herald (Willoughby, OH)
Auxiliary police force marks milestone
Volunteer officers have been donating their time to protect city since 1961
“Two words describe a Richmond Heights auxiliary police officer: Big heart. These officers volunteer their personal time to help keep our city safe.”
That’s the view of Police Chief Thomas Wetzel as the Richmond Heights auxiliary division celebrates its 60th anniversary this year, marked by a long history of community service and supporting the full-time officers by taking on many lower risk assignments.
Capt. Mark Hoageson has been a member of the auxiliary force for 32 years and has served as the unit commander for the past 18.
“Since its inception, the auxiliary unit has provided a valuable service to the community,” Hoageson said. “The scope of responsibilities would eventually include radio dispatching, road patrolling, park and school security, prisoner transport and court assistance.
“An auxiliary officer could be assigned to any low-risk task that would not put their own safety in jeopardy.”
Hoageson said the Richmond Heights’ auxiliary unit was formed in 1961 with just five officers who went through a vigorous training program in 1962 — their very first assignment was running the traffic detail at the dedication of the Richmond Heights General Hospital, now University Hospitals Richmond Medical Center.
These days, Hoageson said they have 12 volunteer officers who have a combined 164 years of experience — averaging to more than 13 years per officer.
He added that any citizen considering ways to give back to their community should consider becoming an auxiliary officer.
“Auxiliary officers directly impact our community,” he said. “There are many tasks that can be offloaded from the regular patrol officers. Most often it is patrolling the city streets for a four-hour shift and being a good observer. Other times, it may be directing traffic due to an accident, flooding or assisting other officers.
“Auxiliary officers do not carry firearms, are not expected to make arrests, and do not respond to most calls,” he added. “Other than for emergencies, the scheduling is very flexible and can accommodate most lifestyles.”
Hoageson added that members of the Richmond Heights unit come from a variety of backgrounds, including technology specialists, customer service representatives and retirees. Previous law enforcement experience is not required to join the unit.
“The unit has always been like a tight-knit family that steps up to help each other out,” he said.
They are always on the lookout for more members, Hoageson said. Applicants are required to have a clean criminal background, be at least 21 years of age, be dedicated to their community and willing to volunteer a minimum of 12 hours per month.
The unit is developing along with the times. Hoageson said their traditional role as mainly patrol officers is now growing to include a community policing model.
He said engaging with their community is in line with the police department’s goal and motto of “Striving to be the Gold Standard.”
“It’s not just written on our cruisers, it’s in our DNA,” Hoageson said. “It’s an exciting time to become a unit member since community engagement opens up entirely new opportunities.
“Even with COVID restrictions, we were still able to serve the community with a ‘Decorated Cruiser Halloween Patrol’ and a ‘Caroling Cruiser’ event,” he added. “We are always looking for new ideas to ‘Serve and Protect.’ Sometimes it just takes a little imagination.”
Wetzel praised the efforts and dedication of the auxiliary officers, noting how many hours they sacrificed in the interest of making their community a safer place.
“We so appreciate all they do and applaud their commitment to our community,” the chief said.
“We recently recognized Capt. Mark Hoageson and Lt. Gary Janikovics for over 30 years of service. They had volunteered around 144 hours a year for 30 years. That is over 4,300 hours of personal service. Where do you see that kind of civic commitment today?”