The New Albany Police Department is pleased to announce the promotion of police officer Joel Strahler to the position of sergeant. Strahler joins Chief Greg Jones and sergeants Garrett Fernander, Kris Daniels and Curtis Baker as New Albany’s senior police leadership.

There were twelve applicants for the position. Following advertising, a written test, an oral review and final interviews, Strahler was chosen. “Joel has served the New Albany Police Department in a number of different ways throughout his career,” said Police Chief Greg Jones. “I’ve witnessed his growth firsthand during his more than 20 years of service in our community, and I think he will be a good role model for a number of our younger officers.”

Strahler began his career in New Albany as a reserve officer in 1994 in became a full time officer in January 1997. He graduated from West Liberty State College in 1993 and worked for the Belmont County Sheriff’s Office before joining New Albany.  During his tenure as a New Albany police officer, Strahler has worked patrol, served as a school resource officer and K-9 handler. He has also been involved in the community’s Block Watch programs.