The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) Washington Township Substation is welcoming a new Community Oriented Policing (COP) deputy, effective Sept. 15, 2025.
Deputy Chris Kidwell began his career with MCSO in 2004 as a corrections officer and was named a deputy sheriff in 2013, serving for two years as the COP in Harrison Township. He left the Sheriff’s Office in 2021 to work as a barber, before deciding to return to duty in 2024.
“Being part of multiple communities – the Sheriff’s Office family, the communities we serve, and the barbering community – is a major part of my life that I am grateful for,” Kidwell said. “I look forward to working in the COP role to continue building trust between the residents of Washington Township and the Sheriff’s Office.”
Kidwell outlined some key goals, such as identifying citizen concerns to help increase efficiency in crime prevention practices, connecting with vulnerable populations to prevent victimization, and creating relationships with residents through neighborhood and business watch efforts, community education and events, and speaking engagements.
“We’re excited to welcome Deputy Kidwell with his proven strengths in building relationships, listening to residents, and working hand-in-hand with community partners,” said Captain Josh Samples, director of the Washington Township Substation. “This position is designed to be a direct link between law enforcement and our neighborhoods – helping residents feel connected, supported, and heard. By focusing on engagement and problem-solving, we can address concerns before they become larger issues and continue making Washington Township a safe and welcoming place to live, work, and play.”
Kidwell replaces Deputy Bill Jones, who retired this summer after just over 25 years of law enforcement service, with three of those as the COP in Washington Township.
The MCSO Washington Township Substation, located at 8190 McEwen Road, serves more than 37,000 residents in the unincorporated area of the Township. The substation has 35 staff members, including one Community Oriented Policing deputy.