As West Chester Township’s new Police Chief, Brian Rebholz, steps into a new title, he’s continuing a 32-year journey of service, leadership and community connection. From his early days as a K-9 officer to his time as a detective and SWAT team member, Rebholz has built a career around his commitment to teamwork, adaptability and a deep respect for those he serves. Now, as Chief, he’s carrying those values forward with a clear focus on strengthening the department from within.
“As a leader, I’ve come to realize the importance of every individual and the value they bring to the department,” Rebholz shares.
His style of policing centers around kindness and integrity, as influenced by his father, a St. Bernard police officer for 29 years. That belief drives his top priorities: recruitment, employee development and embracing new technology. By investing in people and innovation, he’s shaping a police force that meets the community’s needs today while also building for the future.
Rebholz applies that same team-focused mindset to recruitment, seeking motivated individuals who share the department’s vision and values.
"We’re looking for the best of the best,” he emphasizes. "I have an incredible staff, from the record section all the way up to command. With a team of great people, I find that the best solution sometimes comes from the least tenured person in the department."
Rebholz also prioritizes employee development.
“Studies show that highly trained officers are less likely to be involved in critical incidents,” he states. “Every move they make is questioned and documented. We want them to be safe, and we want them to be right. When our officers are well-trained, disciplined and committed, everyone benefits—the department, the township and most importantly, the public.”
In addition to skills training, the department places a strong focus on mental health, offering peer support groups and other resources to ensure officers have the necessary support to perform their duties successfully.
Alongside building a well-rounded team, Rebholz recognizes the increasing role of technology in modern policing. When used thoughtfully and strategically, modern tools can offer vital assistance.
“If technology enhances our mission and increases our operational efficiencies and effectiveness, then it’s something we should consider,” he explains.
Technology and community partnership go hand in hand in his approach to public safety. Tools like Flock cameras that recognize license plates can provide crucial data. Citizens can also elect to register their home Ring cameras with police to help with investigations.
“These systems help the department respond effectively to incidents,” he explains.
While he urges residents to register their Ring cameras with the department for potential access in investigations, he stresses that participation in that program is completely voluntary.
Chief Rebholz underscores the impact of his officers on the community, from crisis negotiations to everyday acts of kindness. Whether it’s buying a meal for someone in need, covering the cost of a hotel for the night or helping replace a worn-out tire—all out of their own pockets—his officers go above and beyond.
“We hear it all the time,” he says proudly, “our officers are fantastic.”
The community’s unwavering support, evident in the recent passing of joint police and fire levies, demonstrates a deep commitment to public safety.
“The community is such a force multiplier for us,” Rebholz says. “The more we engage with each other, the better off we’re going to be.”
West Chester Police Department | 513.777.2321 | WestChesterOH.org