Bellefontaine Mayor Ben Stahler announced Monday, March 27, he has named Lt. Christopher S. Marlow as the interim chief of police, effective April 8.
The move comes after long time Police Chief Brandon Standley submitted his notice of retirement to the city administration earlier this month. Chief Standley will be retiring
April 7 after serving the community for more than 28 years, including the last 12 as chief of police.
Mayor Stahler reflected on the chief’s recent announcement.
“We’re grateful for Chief Standley’s nearly three decades of service to the City of Bellefontaine. During his time as chief, the police department has made tremendous strides, and implemented numerous new programs, including the Citizens Police Academy, which has been very popular and successful. We are certainly thankful for his leadership.”
A lifelong resident of the Bellefontaine area, Marlow will not be an unfamiliar face as he steps into the role of interim chief of police. He currently serves as a lieutenant with the department and acts as its executive officer.
In all, Lt. Marlow has more than 26 years’ experience with the Bellefontaine Police Department, including have served as a patrolman, K-9 handler, sergeant, Special Response Team leader and his current role as lieutenant.
In addition to his years of experience with the Bellefontaine Police Department, Lt. Marlow also has extensive law enforcement education and training, including having obtained his B.S. in Criminal Justice/Leadership from Urbana University and his M.S. in Criminal Justice Administration from Tiffin University. Marlow is also a graduate of the Police Executive Leadership College and the Certified Law Enforcement Executive Program.
“We are fortunate to have Lt. Marlow in our ranks with the breadth of experience and knowledge he has in the profession,” Mayor Stahler said.
“In addition to his well-rounded resume, Chris has deep roots in our community, having grown up here and dedicated his career to service in his hometown. It’s always exciting to be able to promote one of our own and I’m confident Lt. Marlow will serve the department and community well during this transition.”
The process for selecting a new, permanent chief of police is governed by the Ohio Revised Code and the City of Bellefontaine Civil Service Rules. The Bellefontaine Civil Service Commission has already met to discuss the process and will set a date for a competitive test soon.
The city must offer the promotional test no later than June 6, 2023, and a permanent appointment would be named soon after the testing process is completed.