Department Profile

Police Vehicles (3)

The Cranberry Township Police Department's mission is to maintain peace and order by providing high quality police services that are responsive to the needs of the community. We protect life and property by apprehending those who commit criminal acts, by developing partnerships to prevent, reduce, or eliminate neighborhood problems and by providing police services that are fair, professional and respectful of the dignity of all individuals. Staff is committed to public safety and improving the quality of life in Cranberry Township.

History 

  • Cranberry Township was originally patrolled by the Pennsylvania State Police
  • In 1956, a part-time force was established with two officers 
  • In 1971, a full-time police department was established under former Chief John R. Scarfo, who retired in 1996.
  • In 1996, the Township appointed it's first Public Safety Director, retired Brigadier General Steve Mannell, who expanded the use of technology and continued to plan for future growth. During his tenure the Township saw the addition of a new police station, a new data management system, and a public safety training center, which is used by the Police and Fire Department. Director Mannell retired in 2007.
  • In 2007, Jeffrey Schueler was appointed as Director of Public Safety. Det. Kevin Meyer was promoted to Lieutenant and was responsible for police operations.
  • In January 2015, Lt. Kevin Meyer promoted to Chief of Police, who retired in 2025.
  • In December 2025, the Township appointed Ken Ruckel as Chief of Police. 

Manpower 

  • (1) Chief of Police, (3) Lieutenants, (4) Patrol Sergeants 
  • (18) Patrol Officers
  • (3) Detectives
  • (3) Police Administrators, full time
  • (1) Social Services Coordinator

Special Services

  • Detectives - Conduct general investigations and lead drug enforcement efforts.
  • Firearms Instruction - Four instructors provide guidance in the safe and proper use of handguns, shotguns, rifles.
  • Tactics Instructions - Officers provide instruction in the safe use of pepper spray, ASP batons and restraint techniques; and Taser.
  • Crime Scene Processing - Officers are certified in crime scene photography, latent print recovery and evidence collection.
  • Bicycle Patrol
  • UAV Program with FAA certified pilots.