For three Hilltown police officers, hard work and dedication have paid off with deserved promotions, according to Police Chief Christopher Engelhart.
At the recommendation of Engelhart, the township board of supervisors on Jan. 28, approved the promotions of Christian Browne to lieutenant detective, and both Richard Tucholski and Christopher Ives to sergeant.
Engelhart described the men as experienced police officers who the department believes will excel in the leadership roles.
Most recently a sergeant, Browne is now in his 22nd year with the Hilltown force. He replaces Lt. Randall Tanghe, who was to retire at the end of January.
“We want to congratulate Lt. Tanghe and thank him for his years of service,” Engelhart said. “We wish him the best.”
Tucholski is a 14-year veteran of the force. His expertise includes narcotics investigation, Engelhart said.
Ives is nearly into his 7th year with Hilltown, the chief said. His expertise includes being a top-notch firearms instructor, among other roles.
The promotions come shortly after Hilltown hired two new patrolmen, Kristian Hanus and Patrick Halcovage, in the closing months of 2018.
The new officers were needed to replace policemen who are retiring from the force, Engelhart said. Short-handed for a time, Hilltown officers were working extra hours to ensure the township had full police protection.
Engelhart has said the department is now back to proper staffing levels.
