On August 14, 2023 Thomas Butler began his tenure as the 6th Police Chief in Springdale history.
Chief Butler comes to Springdale after serving over 33 years with the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office. He started his career in the Corrections Division in 1990 and was promoted to the Patrol Division in 1991 where he served in various districts throughout the years. In 1996, Chief Butler was promoted to Corporal and reassigned to the Traffic Unit, then was promoted to Sergeant in 1999 and Lieutenant in 2005. After obtaining the rank of Lieutenant, he was reassigned as the Night Watch Commander and Over the Rhine Task Force Commander. He next served as a District Commander and was tasked with the creation of a new district for the Village of Silverton. He was promoted to Captain in 2017 serving as the Support Service and Patrol Commander prior to his most current assignment as the Court Services Commander.
Chief Butler is a graduate of Northwestern University’s School of Police Command and Staff. He holds an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice and is currently finishing up his Bachelor’s Degree. Additionally, Chief Butler serves as the Assistant Field Commander for the Hamilton County Police Association Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team.
Chief Butler comes from a large police family that has served Greater Cincinnati since the 1950’s. His wife and two sons are current police officers in Hamilton County. His brother is the current Chief of the Ft. Wright Police Department, his father retired as an Assistant Chief and his brother retired as a Captain from the Cincinnati Police Division.
Chief Butler grew up in the Western Hills neighborhood and graduated from Elder High School. He enlisted in the U.S. Marines Corps from 1986 to 1990. He enjoys scuba diving, camping, hiking, football, powerlifting, spending time with family, friends and especially his granddaughter.