5 Key Reasons Why The City Of Parma Police Department Was Named Ohio's Best In 2025
The City of Parma Police Department has recently cemented its reputation as a leader in modern law enforcement, receiving a prestigious statewide recognition that highlights its commitment to community-focused policing and technological advancement. As of today, December 22, 2025, the department continues to build on a year of significant milestones, from major equipment upgrades to an unprecedented community award.
This article provides an in-depth look at the Parma Police Department’s recent achievements, key leadership, and the strategic initiatives that have placed it at the forefront of policing in Ohio. The information is current, reflecting the most important updates from late 2025, including their efforts to enhance transparency and public safety.
Leadership Profile: Chief James I. Blair and Department Structure
The operational success and strategic direction of the City of Parma Police Department are guided by a dedicated leadership team.
Chief of Police Biography: James I. Blair
- Current Role: Chief of Police, City of Parma Police Department.
- Total Service: Began his career with the department in 1992, accumulating over 32 years of service.
- Leadership History: Has served in numerous essential roles throughout his tenure, including Shift Sergeant and in the Traffic Unit.
- Previous Executive Role: Served for four years as the Deputy Chief of Police before assuming the role of Chief.
- Commitment: Chief Blair is known for his focus on modernizing the department and fostering stronger community relationships.
Key Department Leadership and Structure
The department operates with a structured hierarchy to ensure comprehensive coverage and specialized services across the city of Parma.
- Deputy Chief of Police: Kevin Riley. Deputy Chief Riley plays a crucial role in administration and day-to-day operations.
- Total Personnel: The department maintains a robust force of approximately 113 officers.
- Divisions: Key operational areas include the Administration, the Uniform Patrol Division, and the Detective Bureau, each vital for maintaining order and addressing complex investigations.
The 2025 Recognition: Why Parma Was Named Ohio's Police Department of the Month
In a major milestone for the city, the Parma Police Department was officially recognized by the Ohio Association of Chiefs of Police (OACP) as Ohio's Police Department of the Month for October 2025. This is the first time the department has received this prestigious statewide honor, signaling a new era of excellence in local law enforcement.
The recognition is not based on a single action but reflects a comprehensive, unwavering commitment to public service and forward-thinking initiatives.
5 Pillars of Excellence Cited for the OACP Award
- Strong Community Engagement Initiatives: The OACP specifically cited the department's "unwavering commitment to building strong, trusting community engagement initiatives" as a primary factor. This focus on community policing is central to their operations.
- Citizens Academy Program: The department actively hosts a Citizens Academy in partnership with Cuyahoga County Community College. This program fosters transparency and mutual understanding by educating residents on police procedures and operations.
- Modernizing Technology: The proactive move to upgrade essential technology, such as body-worn cameras, demonstrates a commitment to transparency and modern policing standards.
- Dedicated Senior Services: The Parma Police Department maintains a strong focus on Community Services, including specialized programs and outreach dedicated to the city's senior population.
- Professional Staff Dedication: The award acknowledges the entire department, including officers, corrections personnel, dispatchers, and professional staff, recognizing the collective effort required for excellence in public safety.
Commitment to Transparency: The Body-Worn Camera Upgrade
A significant strategic move in 2025 was the department’s initiative to upgrade its body-worn camera program. This investment in technology highlights the administration's dedication to transparency, accountability, and providing the best evidence-gathering tools for its officers.
The decision to upgrade comes nearly a decade after the original program was implemented, showcasing a commitment to keeping pace with technological advancements in law enforcement. This upgrade ensures the department’s equipment meets the highest modern standards for video and audio quality, storage, and reliability.
- Timeline: The camera upgrade was announced and began processing in July 2025.
- Funding and Expansion: The department is actively pursuing opportunities, including the State of Ohio's body-worn camera grant program, to expand its inventory. Plans include acquiring additional body-worn cameras and replacing dash camera systems to ensure full coverage.
- Impact on Public Trust: Enhanced video evidence is crucial for both officer safety and maintaining public trust, serving as a vital tool for documenting interactions and ensuring fair outcomes.
Ongoing Community and Safety Initiatives
Beyond the major awards and technological upgrades, the Parma Police Department is continuously engaged in local, practical safety initiatives that directly impact the quality of life for Parma citizens.
Focus on School Zone Safety
With the commencement of the 2025-2026 school year, the department has placed a renewed emphasis on School Zone Safety Reminders. This crucial initiative aims to protect students and manage traffic flow, particularly around local educational institutions like those in Parma Heights, ensuring compliance with reduced speed limits during school hours.
Specialized Community Services
The department’s Community Services division is highly active, focusing on several unique local needs:
- Parks and Recreation Programs: Officers frequently engage with local parks and recreation programs, fostering positive interactions between youth and law enforcement.
- Harvested Deer Pick Up Registration: A unique service, the City of Parma offers a registration program for the pick-up of harvested deer, demonstrating tailored support for local regulations and environmental management.
- Mental Health and Support: The department recognizes the need for comprehensive support, utilizing community resources for therapy and support purposes when necessary.
The City of Parma Police Department, under the leadership of Chief James I. Blair and Deputy Chief Kevin Riley, is clearly moving forward with a strategic vision that prioritizes modern technology, strong community partnerships, and professional excellence. The October 2025 OACP recognition serves as a powerful testament to the hard work of every officer, dispatcher, and staff member dedicated to serving the community of Parma, Ohio.
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