IN Peters Township October/November 2016 | Page 43

determine areas of training interest, Fruecht was able to cultivate
officers’ strengths to benefit the department. “We took advantage of
opportunities to educate officers and to provide department-wide
training,” he says.
After addressing the Policy Manual and training issues, Fruecht
turned his focus on creating an Emergency Operations Plan (EOP).
Through the combined efforts of the police, fire and ambulance service,
an EOP was drafted and approved by Council.
Though these efforts are some of Fruecht’s key accomplishments,
many other successes have been realized under his leadership. Fruecht
introduced major technology changes within the department,
including the use of a records management system, in-car computers,
electronic speed timing devices, duty firearm upgrades and critical
incident response training for all department personnel. He also
created the “Exchange Zone” in front of the Police Department as a
means to provide a safe location under 24-hour video surveillance
where Internet sales and other exchanges can take place.
Over the years, the Police Department has also developed a
cooperative relationship with the Peters Township School District
by introducing programs like D.A.R.E, Stranger Danger, the Child
Fingerprinting Program, the Pre-Prom Program, Survival 101 and
the School Resource Officer Program. Fruecht also implemented an
after-school model building program that has morphed into the DARE
Historic Model Railroad Club. More than 18 years later, this program
still thrives.
Fruecht credits his success to determination, hard work and, most
importantly, not being afraid of failure. When Fruecht first became
Chief of Police for Peters Township, his goal was to develop the
department into a police agency the community would be proud of.
Fruecht believes his goal has been reached through the hard work of
sworn and non-sworn members of the department and the professional
manner in which they work with and for the community.
“Chief Fruecht came into a department which, at the time, did not
have a great rapport or positive relationship with the public,” says
former Township Manager Michael Silvestri. “His leadership created
a system of professionalism, well-trained officers and consistency for
Peters Township, and he worked tirelessly to improve the department’s
relationships, communication and involvement with organizations
throughout the community.”
Peters Township Council Chairman Bob Lewis agrees. “The Police
Department has preserved a positive relationship with the community
and residents are comfortable turning to the police for help. Harry’s
contributions to all of those efforts continue to make our Township a
better place.”
Over the years, Fruecht experienced many good memories. “I’ve
listened to moms, dads and their children who have talked to me about
all kinds of issues or came to me seeking help or advice,” says Fruecht.
“Sometimes I would be approached while out and about, or people
would stop by the station to thank me for the impact I had on their life
or the life of their child. That’s truly what this profession is all about to
me—making a difference.”
Chief Douglas Grimes succeeds Fruecht as the new Chief of
Police. “In the 11 months I’ve been with the Peters Township Police
Department, it’s obvious to me that Chief Fruecht has worked to
develop a strong community presence and, as a result, the department
enjoys strong community support,” says Grimes.
“Chief Grimes is a very seasoned police officer and an experienced
administrator,” says Fruecht. “There is no doubt he will do well.”
In his retirement from Peters Township, Fruecht hopes to spend
more time with his family, including his wife of 36 years, Christina, as

well as his daughters Heather and Tara, both of whom he and his wife
are very proud, and his grandchildren.
Fruecht has worked part-time for the Governor’s Center for Local
Government Services for more than 24 years, performing peer
management studies, regional police planning and providing technical
assistance to communities all over Western Pennsylvania—a job he
will continue to maintain. Fruecht will also continue to teach a class
for the Boroughs and Townships Association called “Managing Police
Services in Small Communities” and will maintain his own business,
Police Consulting Services, where he provides an oral interview
process to municipalities across the state in the hiring and promoting
of police officers.

Additionally, Fruecht will continue to work full-time and has secured
a position with the PA DUI Association.
“During my tenure with Peters Township, there have been a number
of times that law enforcement across this nation has come under fire,”
Fruecht says. “During those times, residents, businesses and churches
made a point to make their support of the Peters Township Police
Department known—from thank you cards to letters of appreciation,
lunch, cookies and drawings from children in our schools—all of these
things ensured we had earned the community’s support. I am so thankful
for that support. It has been a pleasure serving this community.” n
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