Chief Walter Distelzweig is a 36-year veteran of the Columbus Division of Police.  He has held previous assignments in Patrol, Helicopter Unit, Administration, Training and Intelligence. Chief Distelzweig also has  military experience as a pilot in command and has received multiple military awards.

Chief Distelzweig holds a Bachelors in Criminal Justice from Ohio Dominican University and received his Master of Science in Human Resources Administration from Central Michigan University. He has attended and completed more than 20 law enforcement trainings including the FBI National Academy, the Police Executive Leadership College and the Certified Law Enforcement Executive course.

Chief Distelzweig served 21 years in the Ohio Army National Guard where he served as a pilot in command of UH-1 helicopters, an aviation life support equipment officer and a physical security officer. He has received numerous awards including a Recognition Certificate for Service during “Fuertes Caminos 89” for his service in Honduras, plus the Army Commendation Medal.

Chief Distelzweig is a native and resident of Columbus.

Promotional Background & Assignments 

•    Entered Division on December 3, 1972, assigned to Patrol, Heliport, Training and Maintenance
•    Promoted to Sergeant in 1984, assigned to Patrol
•    Promoted to Lieutenant in 1988, assigned to Patrol and Business Administration
•    Promoted to Commander in 1992, assigned to Patrol, Training, and Intelligence
•    Promoted to Deputy Chief in 1998, assigned to Patrol East and Administrative Subdivision
•    Promoted to Chief on March 17, 2009.