Fairfield Twp. police chief’s personnel file hinted at resignation

Fairfield Twp. requested in 2015 that plans be put in place for police chief’s replacement.
In 2013, Matt Fruchey was sworn in as the Fairfield Twp. police chief. STAFF FILE PHOTO

In 2013, Matt Fruchey was sworn in as the Fairfield Twp. police chief. STAFF FILE PHOTO

Fairfield Twp.administration praised the work of former Police Chief Matt Fruchey despite unexpected turnover in the administration and board of trustees since he was hired, according to review of his personnel file by the Journal-News.

Fruchey resigned Tuesday, just one month after one of his officers had his police cruiser stolen following a traffic stop.

Township Administrator Julie Vonderhaar wrote in Fruchey’s December 2016 evaluation that the chief has “presented a very welcoming and receptive attitude” and “that willingness still remains and is crucial to the successful operation of the township.”

Fruchey was hired in 2013 as police chief, a position he said he did not intend to stay in for very long when he was hired.

RELATED: Man who stole Fairfield Twp. police cruiser indicted for crime spree

In his April 2015 evaluation, interim administrator Ken Geis requested Fruchey “actively establish a mentoring program for your replacement” and wrote there was not “an established procedure for selecting the next chief.”

According to the Ohio checkbook, his salary for 2015 was $87,500.

“I believe that the success of the township is best served by training all personnel for the next assignment whenever possible,” Geis wrote. “This process of inclusion also helps employees feel engaged and important.”

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