A Cup of Coffee with The Chief of Police Middleburg Heights

Robert Swanson
Chief of Police

Where did you grow up?

Where did you attend high school?

What did you do after graduation?

After graduating from high school, I enlisted in the United States Navy at the age of 17. I completed Avionics training and was assigned to the Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron 136 aboard the USS Midway (CV-41). During my naval service, I participated in both Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm, gaining invaluable experience in teamwork, discipline, and mission accomplishment under demanding conditions.Following my military service, I attended Baldwin Wallace University, where I earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice in 1996. My military service and education established the foundation for my career in law enforcement, instilling the values of integrity, accountability, leadership, and service that continue to guide me today.

How did you start your career?

I began my law enforcement career with the Middleburg Heights Police Department in 1996. Since joining the department, I have had the opportunity to serve in a variety of assignments and leadership roles, gaining experience in patrol operations, investigations, administration, and departmental management. Those experiences have helped shape my approach to leadership, emphasizing professionalism, accountability, community service, and supporting the officers who serve our community every day.

What do you like about your career, and how do you best contribute to the City of Middleburg Heights?

One of the aspects of my career I enjoy most is developing training programs and identifying new technologies and equipment that improve our officers’ ability to perform their duties safely and effectively. I find it rewarding to evaluate new tools, implement innovative solutions, and ensure our personnel have the resources they need to succeed.I believe these efforts directly contribute to the City of Middleburg Heights by enhancing officer performance, improving operational efficiency, and increasing the quality of service we provide to the community. Investing in our officers through meaningful training and modern equipment not only makes them more effective in completing their assignments, but also makes their careers more enjoyable, professionally rewarding, and fulfilling. Well-trained, well-equipped officers are more confident, more capable, and better prepared to meet the evolving needs of our community.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

Outside of my professional career, I enjoy fishing, spending time outdoors, and being with my family.