Retired FBI agent being considered for police chief by Austintown trustees

A new candidate has thrown their hat into the ring for the position of Austintown Police Chief. 

With the retirement of Police Chief Bob Gavalier on February 28, who has been with APD for 38 years and 5 years as a reserves officer, trustees have been looking at options to fill his position.

Retired FBI Assistant Special Agent in Charge and former Youngstown Police Officer Robert W. Clark has submitted his resume and spoke with Austintown Township Administrator Mark D'Apolito expressing his interest in being considered for the position.

On Friday, February 14 Austintown trustees interviewed five candidates, two of which currently work for APD. Those candidates are Lt. William Hoelzel and Lt. Valorie Delmont.

Both Delmont and Hoelzel are patrol division supervisors and have been working for the station for over 17 years. 

Jeff Palmer was also interviewed for the role. Palmer was the chief of police in Girard and was most recently the chief deputy at Trumbull County Sheriff's Office.

The director of Mahoning County Drug Task Force, Larry McLaughlin was also considered for the position.

Finally, Austintown Local School District Director of Security Kathy Dina was also in the pool for police chief.

Austintown trustees will decide on a police chief at their staff meeting held on Monday, February 24.

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