Chief Michael Frank and the officers of the Put-in-Bay Police Department made themselves available to Bass Islands citizens this afternoon in a casual “meet & greet” hosted by Put-in-Bay Village Mayor Ruth Scarpelli. Chief Frank emphasized the department’s obligation to uphold state and local laws, and he repeatedly stressed the importance of open communications between the citizenry, Village Council, Township officials, and the police. The Chief stated he was hired to update the Police Department’s policies and procedures, and that this priority would introduce changes in enforcement. As an example, he explained driving ATV’s on public roads is not permitted by Ohio law; however, he suggested it might be time for legislative changes for island environments. In the meantime, first-time ATV-law offenders will be issued a warning. “Educating about the law comes first; a violation citation is second,” said Chief Frank. The Put-in-Bay Police Department is to be commended for welcoming citizens to share their law enforcement concerns.
