Brandon Zucker sworn in as Vandalia police chief; city introduces probationary public safety specialist

Brandon Zucker took the oath of office as Vandalia’s police chief during the City Council meeting on May 5.

Zucker was promoted to police chief effective May 1 and was sworn in at the meeting. In his remarks he thanked council, city staff and his family and said, “I appreciate you all coming here tonight. I’d like to express my gratitude to city council, the mayor, city manager Kurt Althouse, for placing your trust in me, to serve as police chief for the city of Vandalia.” He said he is “committed to doing everything I can to provide you with the tools, resources, training, and support you need to do your jobs effectively, and most importantly, to ensure you go home safely to your families at the end of every shift.”

Council and staff read Zucker’s biography into the record: he is a lifelong Vandalia resident, a graduate of Vandalia Butler High School, earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and sociology (with a minor in psychology) from Bluffton University, and completed a master’s degree in public administration at the University of Dayton in 2008. His prior law‑enforcement employment included positions with the Troutwood Police Department and the Huber Heights Division of Police, where he served as patrol officer, liaison officer and patrol sergeant. Officials thanked Zucker for his service and congratulated him at the meeting.

The council and staff also introduced Chase Solberg as a probationary public safety specialist with the Vandalia Division of Police. Staff said Solberg reported for duty on Feb. 5, 2025, and completed orientation and field training. Council materials noted Solberg graduated from Northmont High School, earned an associate of applied science degree in criminal justice and law enforcement from Sinclair Community College in 2021, and served as a part‑time jailer for the Fairborn Police Department from June 2020 to June 2021. Solberg was identified as residing in Greenville and attending the meeting with a family member who is also a law enforcement officer.

Mayor Richard Herbst and City Manager Kurt Althouse joined council in welcoming Zucker and Solberg. A reception for Zucker and the city manager followed the meeting.