Patton Township names new police chief

A veteran of Patton Township’s police force has been appointed the new chief.

Tyler Jolley was named the department’s new leader after 15 years of serving the community, including the past five years as a sergeant. He will succeed John Petrick, who was hired by Penn State after serving as police chief for 16 years.

Patton Township Manager Doug Erickson announced Jolley’s promotion Thursday and said he is a well-respected member of the police department.

“We have a really, really good police department here in Patton Township,” Jolley said. “I’m excited to get the opportunity to lead the department. Our main focus is the community, working hand-in-hand with the school district and making sure our residents and visitors are provided with the best police department possible.”

The township received 27 applications for the position, and five candidates were selected to participate in a two-day assessment and interview process. The interview panel included representatives from the State College Area School District and the township’s business community.

“Out of the candidates we talked to and interviewed he defined himself as the best fit for our department at this time,” Erickson said. “You’ll find him to be well spoken and highly sincere. He will keep everything moving in the right direction.”

Jolley will assume the police chief position Tuesday. A formal swearing in ceremony has not yet been scheduled.

This story was originally published August 31, 2017 at 2:40 PM with the headline "Patton Township names new police chief."