Mike Schroll sworn in as new Hinckley police chief

HINCKLEY TWP. — After Mike Schroll was sworn-in as Hinckley's new police chief on Tuesday, he told former police Chief David Centner, "With honor, chief, I'll take it from here." Schroll most recently served as a sergeant for Hinckley police. Trustee Monique Ascherl listed his decision-making skills, attention to detail and quality of work among the reasons for his promotion. "After 19 years with this agency, serving under four police chiefs, I'm honored and excited to lead the Hinckley Police Department to its next chapter," Schroll said. "While my name may now be the head of the agency, the true face of this department is our incredible men and women. They're out in the community every day and every night, serving the public and making a difference in the lives of those they protect." Over the past few years, he has attended many trainings, such as a public safety leadership academy at the Ohio State University, Ascherl said. "This was an intensive three-month-long leadership training in Columbus," she said. "The Schroll family sacrificed much of their time together for this ongoing training, which was voluntary." Schroll worked with Centner over the past six years to develop a succession plan for the department, Ascherl said. As a result, Schroll served as acting chief when Centner was out of the office. "(Schroll's) everything I could ever hope for in helping me lead the police department," Centner said. "These guys are in great hands. The township's in great hands, and I couldn't be more proud tonight for you and your family." Centner announced his retirement in November after spending nearly 40 years in law enforcement and eight years as chief. Schroll said he would not be where he is today without Centner. "He never led this department with an ego or kept knowledge at the top," Schroll said. "Instead, he shared his wealth of experience and wisdom, investing not only in me, but our agency as a whole. Over the past eight years, we built a strong mutual respect for each other and worked together as a true team." Contact reporter Madisyn Woodring at (330) 721-4049 or mwoodring@medina-gazette.com.