Springfield Police Chief announces retirement
The Springfield Police Division chief is retiring after 26 years in law enforcement.
Springfield Police Division Chief Lee Graf will retire on Dec. 30, city officials announced today.
Graf, who has been chief since December 2017, has been with the department since 1996. During his time, he rose through ranks and was credited with launching several community policing initiatives, including the Citizen Police Academy.
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In a statement, Graf said being able to serve the Springfield community was a honor.
“I have been privileged to work alongside some of the finest men and women in law enforcement, both within the Division and throughout Clark County and the Miami Valley. I have full faith and confidence that this community will continue to be well-served in the capable hands of my fellow officers after my departure,” Graf said.
Graf has been a “major asset” while serving Springfield Police during challenging times in law enforcement, according to City Manager Bryan Heck.
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“He has paved the way for the next generation of servant leaders in the police division, and he will be missed,” Heck said.
A local government consulting firm has been brought on to help the city recruiting and selecting the next police chief. Both internal and external submissions will be collected. After interviews are conducted by city officials, Heck will select the next chief and the city commission will confirm the selection.
