7 Critical Updates On The Cheltenham PA Police Department: New Leadership, Major Reforms, And 2025 Safety Initiatives
The Cheltenham PA Police Department (CTPD) is undergoing a significant evolution, marked by new leadership, a focus on community-centric policing, and progressive policy changes that redefine its role within Montgomery County. As of December 22, 2025, the department is actively engaging in recruitment, implementing a landmark immigration policy, and continuing its mission to partner with residents across the 9.0 square mile Township of Cheltenham, which includes vital areas like Glenside, Elkins Park, and Wyncote. This deep dive explores the most current facts and initiatives shaping public safety in the region.
The CTPD, which operates under the authority of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and Montgomery County, has recently welcomed new sworn officers to its ranks, signaling a commitment to maintaining adequate staffing levels to serve its diverse population. From addressing high-profile incidents like school-related investigations and child abduction cases to adopting a formal "Welcome Policy," the department's operations reflect a modern approach to law enforcement that balances traditional crime-fighting with social justice and community trust-building.
The New Era of Leadership and Department Profile
The Cheltenham Township Police Department has seen a shift in its command structure, solidifying a new era of leadership dedicated to modern policing standards. The department, founded in 1903, has a long history of serving the communities of Cheltenham Township.
The department patrols a 9.0 square mile area, encompassing numerous distinct communities, including La Mott, Melrose Park, and Cheltenham Village. Its mission is explicitly defined as working in partnership with the community to seek out and solve problems, a core tenet of modern community policing.
Current Leadership and Key Facts
- Chief of Police: John P. Slavin. Chief Slavin took the helm of the CTPD, bringing nearly four decades of law enforcement experience to the position.
- Predecessor: Chief Slavin succeeded Chief John Frye, who retired in late 2021.
- Recent Recruitment: The Township recently swore in three new officers, bolstering the department's manpower and operational capacity.
- Jurisdiction: The CTPD is responsible for public safety across the entire Township of Cheltenham, which falls under Montgomery County, PA.
- Staffing: The department's profile lists approximately 84 employees, indicating a substantial force dedicated to the township's safety.
- Officer Compensation (2025): The starting salary for sworn officers is competitive, set at $73,140 for 2025, with an option to enter a Deferred Retirement Option Program (DROP).
Progressive Policing: The 'Welcome Policy' and Reform Initiatives
In a significant move toward fostering trust with all residents, the Cheltenham Township Police Department and the Township itself have unveiled a progressive immigration "Welcome Policy." This policy is a critical component of the department's commitment to equitable policing and has garnered attention across Montgomery County.
The "Welcome Policy" explicitly states that the Township and its Police Department value all residents, regardless of immigration status. Crucially, it prohibits the use of Township facilities or properties for staging immigration enforcement operations. This initiative aims to ensure that all members of the community feel safe reporting crimes and interacting with law enforcement without fear of unwarranted immigration scrutiny. The policy aligns with a growing trend in Montgomery County communities seeking to prevent local law enforcement from assisting federal agencies like ICE.
Furthermore, the CTPD has been involved in broader discussions around police reform. Arcadia University, in collaboration with the Montgomery County Racial Justice Improvement Task Force and the Cheltenham Branch of the NAACP, has worked to outline reforms related to race, justice, and policing. This collaboration underscores the department's willingness to engage with civil rights groups and academic institutions to continually improve its practices and address historical issues of racial justice.
Public Safety Updates, Community Partnership, and Transparency
The CTPD's daily operations extend far beyond traditional patrols, focusing heavily on community outreach and high-transparency public safety measures. The department maintains a strong partnership with the Cheltenham School District, with Chief Slavin's office providing direct contact information for safety concerns and anonymous crime tips.
Recent incidents highlight the critical nature of the department's work in protecting vulnerable populations. The CTPD was involved in the investigation of a highly publicized case where a 2-year-old was rescued following an abduction in Montgomery County. Additionally, the department has been tasked with investigating serious incidents within the school system, including hazing allegations that led to the cancellation of the high school's football season. These cases demonstrate the CTPD's role in addressing sensitive and complex public safety issues that require collaboration with ChildLine and other county resources.
Commitment to Transparency and Accessibility
To enhance transparency, the Cheltenham Township Police Department provides several avenues for public access to information and services:
- Accident Reports: Citizens can access Cheltenham Township police accident reports online through the Carfax Police Crash Assistance Program. This digital access streamlines a process that was historically cumbersome for residents involved in traffic incidents.
- Active Incidents: The department's activities are often reflected in the Montgomery County WebCAD Active Incidents log, which provides a real-time, albeit brief, view of ongoing calls for service, ranging from diabetic emergencies to other public safety matters.
- Fiscal Planning: The CTPD's mission and budgetary needs are outlined in the Township's Fiscal Year 2025-26 Adopted Budget, ensuring the public is aware of the financial resources dedicated to law enforcement and community programs.
The ongoing commitment to community policing, as evidenced by the partnership with the Cheltenham School District and the explicit "Welcome Policy," positions the Cheltenham PA Police Department as a forward-thinking agency. Under the leadership of Chief Slavin, the CTPD is navigating the complexities of modern law enforcement by prioritizing community trust, progressive policies, and the safety of all residents across Glenside, Elkins Park, and the entirety of Cheltenham Township.
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