A new Beachwood City Police Chief stepped into office on Sept. 3.

Daniel Grispino, formerly a commander in the Shaker Heights Police Dept., has already taken steps to achieving his many goals in Beachwood’s Police Dept. He is focused on community outreach.

“My leadership team and I are working to improve communications across the department,” he wrote in an email. “I also envision opportunities for us to be more engaging with the public, both in person and through our social media channels.” 

Grispino views his 18 years with the Shaker Heights Police Department as an asset in his new job.

He credits the mentors who have helped him in his career journey with helping him develop the skills he will need in his new job.

“Having a servant’s heart is the most important thing I have learned from those that have mentored me throughout my career,” he said, “People do not care about how much you know until they know how much you care.”

Grispino explains that his experience in a range of police roles has shifted his perspective and enriched his appreciation for his job and authority.

“My law enforcement career spans 22 years with experience in specialized units such as SWAT, K9, investigations and various levels of supervision,” he wrote. “However, the most important asset to this police department will always be the police officers that risk their lives daily for this community. It is my job to support them and give them the tools and resources necessary in order for them to do their job effectively and professionally.”

One of the issues that Grispino is focused on is school safety. 

“School security is an important issue that I do not take lightly,” he wrote. “Preparedness is the top priority in dealing with school safety.” 

“Working in partnership with the schools is essential for preparedness,” he added. “The Beachwood Police Department will continue to collaborate with the school district to ensure the continued safety of our students, faculty and staff.” 

Mall security has also been an important issue in Beachwood in recent years. Grispino says he has no immediate concerns when it comes to the Beachwood Place, although it is an important thing to keep an eye on.

“The recent security measures have been effective, and I have no immediate concerns,” he wrote, “Beachwood Place is safe, and our department is committed to maintaining security for residents, employees and visitors.”

Mayor Justin Berns feels that Grispino was a good hire.

“During conversations with Chief Grispino, I was impressed by his comprehensive approach to public safety,” he said. 

In an interview in September, Mayor Berns discussed his role in the hiring process and explained why he felt Chief Grispino was the best fit for the job.

“Appointing my first Police Chief – is among the most pivotal decisions I’ve made as Mayor,” he said. “I have complete confidence in Chief Grispino’s ability to lead our police department.”

He went into depth on some characteristics that stood out and helped him lead to his final decision.

“His understanding of community-focused policing assured me that he would continue to uphold and enhance the Beachwood Police Department’s standard of excellence,” he said. 

Due to the rise of antisemitic incidents in recent years, one of Grispino’s first courses of action was to heighten security for Beachwood’s large Jewish community, especially around synagogues. 

During the Jewish holidays, the Chief increased police street surveillance to protect citizens.

“The safety of our residents is always a top priority,” he told Fox 8 in early October. “Our officers are conducting saturated patrols in the neighborhoods, just being more visible. It’s about making our residents feel a level of comfort, safety and security.” 

“We don’t know when the conflict’s going to end and as long as our residents feel that they need a level of increased security, we’re going be there to assist them,” he continued.

Chief Grispino has had a busy first few months, but he feels ready. 

“I have always viewed policing as a vocation and not simply a job,” he wrote. “I have prepared my entire career to put myself in a position where one day, I might have an opportunity to lead a police department effectively.”