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| Sgt. Dale Waltz |
Waltz began his 25-year career with the Canton department in 1996 as a Public Safety Service Officer (PSSO), performing the tasks of call taker, dispatcher and jail attendant. Two-years later, he took a leave of absence and put himself through the police academy and in 1999, he tested for and was promoted to the position of police officer.
Department administrators took note of the organizational benefits of a PSSO transitioning to a sworn officer and soon after put a formal program into place, of which 18 full-time PSSOs have since participated and been promoted to either a police officer or firefighter within the township.
Early on, in addition to his road patrol duties, Waltz held several special assignments including training instructor, Explorer team advisor, evidence technician, and field training officer. Waltz also served several years assigned to the Plymouth-Canton Educational Park as a school resource officer where he made a positive impact on students attending the high school campus, officials said.
Waltz was promoted to the rank of sergeant in 2013, serving as a platoon supervisor providing leadership, training and direction to his assigned shift of patrol officers. He was also responsible for administrative assignments and special projects.
Most notably, Waltz was influential in cultural awareness training within the organization, and he played a significant role on the department original Canton Response to Hate Crimes Coalition, bringing people of different backgrounds together for the common purpose of working toward an inclusive community.
Waltz has been recognized on numerous occasions by citizens expressing their appreciation of his patient and courteous demeanor, officials said. He displayed a natural ability of putting people at ease during their most stressful and sometimes traumatic events, they added and said Waltz carried these traits of kindness, respect and humor into his leadership role, working to build a competent and compassionate work force.
“Sgt. Dale Waltz has been an active member of the department, putting great effort into all of his assignments and undertakings,” said Chad Baugh, police chief. “Dale's compassion for humanity has been a strength throughout his career-driving his dedication for the betterment of the organization and the residents he so proudly served,” Baugh said.
