Zahradnik named new Northwood police chief

       Northwood Police Captain Jeffery Zahradnik has been named the new Chief of Police for the Northwood Police Department..
        He replaces former Chief Thomas S. Cairl, who retired in July. Zahradnik has been serving as acting chief of police since then.
        Zahradnik was promoted to chief at a city council meeting on Jan. 27.
        Chief Zahradnik has lived in the area his entire life and began his career in law enforcement as a patrolman for the Northwood Police Department in October of 1995. Through his 26 years with the department, he has climbed through the ranks serving as a patrolman, detective, patrol sergeant, detective sergeant, and police captain for the last 10 years.
        Chief Zahradnik holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice, and attended the Ohio Association of Chiefs of Police’s (OACP) Police Executive Leadership College (PELC) in 2017. His educational background paired with numerous years of experience in law enforcement make him an excellent fit for the position. 
        When asked about his goal for the department, Chief Zahradnik said, “The prior chief, Thomas S. Cairl, did a great job at running the department and taught me many valuable skills. I plan to keep things running as he had left it, with a few minor changes….I will do my best to promote professionalism and efficiency within the department.  Everyone should take comfort in knowing that the officers of the Northwood Police Department will continue to treat everyone fairly and respectfully while we protect and serve.”