Deputy Chief Walter Distelzweig
Deputy Chief Walter Distelzweig is a 34-year veteran of the Columbus Division of Police. He is currently assigned to the Administrative Subdivision. He has held previous assignments in Patrol, Helicopter Unit, Administration, Training and Intelligence. Deputy Chief Distelzweig also has extensive military experience as a pilot in command and has received multiple military awards.
Deputy Chief Distelzweig holds a Bachelors in Criminal Justice from Ohio Dominican University and received his Master of Science in Administration, Human Resources Administration from Central Michigan University. He has attended and completed more than 20 law enforcement trainings sponsored by the FBI, the Ohio Association of Chiefs of Police, and other well respected agencies.
As Deputy Chief, he oversees internal investigations, business and personnel administration, and serves as the liaison between the Division and City Hall.
Deputy 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.
Deputy Chief Distelzweig is a native and resident of Columbus with his wife and two children. He is also an active member of the Christ the King Catholic Church.
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
