Spring Township in search of new leader following police chief’s resignation
Spring Township needs a new police chief after its top law enforcement officer submitted his resignation.
Former Chief Adam Salyards’ resignation will be effective July 31, though his last day in the department was July 9. Township Manager Mike Danneker told the Centre Daily Times the township’s three supervisors unanimously approved Salyards’ resignation last week.
He led the department since May 2021. A message left with him Thursday morning was not immediately returned. In his resignation letter, Salyards said he was retiring from law enforcement.
“It is with mixed emotions that I submit my resignation as Chief of Police for Spring Township. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have served this community over the past five years,” Salyards wrote. “During my tenure, I have witnessed the township and the police department grow and improve in countless ways, thanks to your unwavering support and commitment to public safety.”
Danneker described Salyards as a professional who “did everything he needed to do.” Prior to taking the job at Spring Township, he was employed by State College police.
Salyards expressed appreciation to the supervisors, Danneker and the eight-member police department in his resignation letter. He said it was an honor to work alongside them and he was grateful to finish his career with Spring Township police.
“I wish nothing but continued success for the township and the police department as you move forward,” Salyards wrote. “Thank you for the trust, support, and partnership you have shown me throughout my service.”
As the township works toward a full-time replacement, officer Shane Dickey was appointed “Officer in Charge.” He’s the department’s longest-tenured officer, having started in July 2004.
The township’s supervisors also promoted Luke Nelson to sergeant and moved Christopher Snare into the detective position. Each began their new roles Monday, Danneker said.
Four of the five municipal police departments in Centre County have seen turnover in their chief position in the past six years. Patton Township’s police department, led by Chief Tyler Jolley for nearly the past nine years, is the exception.
Bellefonte police Chief Bill Witmer has been in the role for nearly two years, while State College and Ferguson Township each welcomed new police chiefs in January.
