TPD navigates changes

Several changes have gone underway over the past year within the Tiffin Police Department from navigating staffing changes and policy updates to building new partnerships – while continuing to emphasize core values such as officer wellness, training and community engagement. Staffing, policy and operational changes Chief of Police David Pauly said the department experienced a significant transition in 2025, including three retirements. In response, the department promoted two officers to sergeant and hired two new officers, while continuing recruitment efforts to address staffing shortages. "While that loss is felt, change also creates opportunity," Pauly said, noting that new hires and promotions bring fresh perspectives and leadership approaches. Department leadership also focused on refining policies and strengthening internal communication, supervision consistency and officer wellness initiatives. Pauly said additional emphasis was placed on de-escalation training, mental health response and procedural justice. "We developed new approaches, policies, and assistance procedures for those in mental health crisis and gained new partnerships with mental health hospitals to better serve those in crisis so we're not just trying to arrest our way out of issues," Pauly said. The department also implemented an eCitation program to improve efficiency during traffic stops. Due to House Bill 315, the department may now charge a fee for public requests for body-worn and in-car camera footage, helping offset the time required for redaction and protecting victims' privacy. Another initiative introduced in 2025 was the creation of Hearts Behind the Badge, a support group made up of spouses, partners and family members of law enforcement personnel. "Supporting one another, both inside and outside the department, strengthens our ability to support a community that has consistently shown strong support for its police department," Pauly said. Community partnerships and outreach Some of the department's most visible work over the past year involved strengthening relationships throughout the community. Officers attended local events, engaged with students and partnered with area schools to improve emergency response coordination and safety planning. The department also participated in D.A.R.E. graduations at Bridges Academy and Calvert Elementary School, Heidelberg University's CORE program and the Fuel and Focus initiative at Columbian High School. "Our partnerships with schools, social service providers, and neighboring law enforcement agencies have made a measurable difference," Pauly said. He noted collaboration allows the department to better address mental health crises, youth concerns and quality-of-life issues. Partnerships with the Fostoria Police Department and the Seneca County Sheriff's Office have also continued to strengthen. "Trust grows when residents see that we are committed to solutions, not just enforcement," Pauly said. In partnership with Tiffin University's Violent Crime Analysis Research Fellowship, the department conducted a community-wide survey to better understand community perceptions and identify areas for improvement. While Pauly noted the feedback as largely positive, the survey highlighted opportunities to increase police presence in perceived underserved areas and improve visibility of crime prevention efforts. Technology, facilities and victim support The department also invested in technology and facility improvements aimed at transparency, efficiency and victim support. Upgrades were made to camera systems, reporting processes and interview room audio and video technology. With assistance from community groups and veteran organizations, the department created a soft interview room designed to better serve children and other vulnerable victims. "This will truly be a game-changer in how we serve victims and support our investigators," Pauly said. Pauly emphasized that wellness and resiliency initiatives remain equally important. The department expanded access to mental health professionals, financial guidance and physical wellness programs, including a partnership with Amber Miskovich's Wonder Within program. "Healthy officers are better equipped to serve the community with professionalism, empathy, and compassion," he said. Evolving practices and looking ahead Pauly said policing continues to evolve and the department has emphasized training, accountability and leadership engagement. "The moment we stop striving to improve is the moment we risk becoming stagnant," he said. Looking ahead, priorities include recruitment and retention, continued training and community engagement. In 2026, the department is planning the installation of License Plate Reader cameras to assist in crime prevention and investigations, as well as the deployment of an electronic detection K9 trained to locate hidden digital devices and provide comfort to child victims during interviews. Additionally, the department plans to mark its 175th anniversary this year. Established in 1851, department leaders are planning an internal celebration as well as a public open house. Above all else, Pauly said the department remains committed to its mission. "We will continue to ensure the Tiffin Police Department remains professional, transparent and committed to serving this community with integrity."