01/14/2026
The Current Status of Your Police Department
Residents of Crescent Township,
I have always believed in open lines of communication and in providing the truth, even when that truth is difficult to hear. Buckle up and get comfortable; this is a long letter, but it is worth the read.
Throughout history, a lack of communication or failed communication has been the cause of wars, division, and distrust. My goal with this letter is to clearly and fully explain the facts surrounding current events within the Crescent Township Police Department, the community, and the township administration.
The Face of Our Police Department
I want our community to understand that my role as Chief of Police carries the responsibility of ensuring the officers I work with are fully supported. I have always had their backs because they are the front line. They are the face of this department.
I am merely a facilitator and support system, ensuring they are properly equipped, protected, and able to perform their jobs safely and effectively. I have always believed that I serve with the officers. I walk next to them, not in front of them and not behind them. My loyalty to them, and to this community, is unmatched.
Why Seasoned Officers
Your police department is highly unique. Some of you may recall a previous Facebook post in which I explained that Crescent Township cannot hire officers directly from the police academy without real-world experience.
Our community does not have the call volume necessary to train a new officer properly, nor does it have enough activity for an inexperienced officer to retain critical skills. Placing an untrained or minimally trained officer in this environment puts residents, the community, and the township at risk.
For that reason, we have hired seasoned officers, men with repetitive experience who know the job and can perform effectively from day one.
What the Crescent Township Police Department Provides
Our six full-time officers operate as a family, professionally, cohesively, and always with the mission first. Each officer accepted this position fully aware that Crescent Township is a small community with low call volume and that public service is our daily mission.
On average, our officers patrol approximately sixty (60) miles each day within just over two square miles. They ensure our children's safety through morning and afternoon school bus patrols. They conduct nightly business and property checks. Most importantly, they serve as first responders for all medical calls, except viral illnesses, and all fire calls.
Our officers work hand in hand with our emergency services partners. When a crime is in progress or an emergency occurs, they are there, ready to protect our residents.
Why Officers Choose Crescent Township
What draws officers to Crescent Township is a strong sense of pride, service, and purpose. The department offers a fair and supportive schedule, with 10-hour shifts that allow every other weekend off, along with a Wednesday overlap for training.
The township provides a competitive compensation package. Officers understand this is not a career department; no one will retire from this job. What makes it work is a fair wage and a healthy, respectful work environment.
Full-Time Police Department or No Police Department
Crescent Township currently operates with six full-time officers providing 24/7 coverage. I serve as a working chief, covering time off and any necessary schedule adjustments.
We have long-standing mutual aid relationships with the Moon Township Police Department, led by Chief Starko, and the Hopewell Township Police Department, led by Chief Sedlacek. These partnerships are strong, professional, and reliable.
The idea of operating a part-time police department, meaning coverage for only portions of the day, is not viable and would not be amicable with our neighboring jurisdictions. While the Pennsylvania State Police are an option, Crescent Township is not their mission. Relying on neighboring police departments to handle our calls after hours would be an abuse of those relationships.
Moon Township and Hopewell Township are always willing to assist us when requested, but their officers and resources belong to their own communities and serve their own taxpayers.
The Commissioners’ Point of View
My tenure as your Chief of Police has been just under five years. During that time, I have seen several commissioners come and go.
Commissioners Chicora and Tomer attended monthly commissioners’ meetings long before they ever held office, often as the only residents present. They were consistently engaged, asking questions and advocating for issues affecting the entire community. When commissioner positions became available, they were the obvious choices.
Commissioner Tomer served as my direct supervisor as the Public Safety Chair and has always been openly supportive of the police department. He has maintained strong professional and personal relationships with our officers. Commissioner Chicora has been equally supportive and engaged. They are good men who work hard for their community and fellow citizens.
The History That Has Brought Us Here
It has become clear that Crescent Township has a long history of failed decisions and ongoing fiscal challenges. Commissioners Tomer and Chicora inherited financial situations and infrastructure problems that were not of their making.
Over the past three years, I have reduced the police department’s budget. In doing so, we delayed replacing critical equipment, delays that will ultimately result in higher costs. Late last year, I met with Commissioners Tomer and Chicora and Manager Farrell to discuss the urgent need to replace aging equipment.
I told them plainly, “You are going to have to make the hard decision.”
Now It Is Your Turn
Now it is your turn to be educated and involved. Ask the right questions. Attend meetings. Learn how your township operates.
You, the residents and taxpayers, are truly in charge. Be informed, be engaged, and be part of the solution.
The Last Word
I have proudly served this community, working alongside your patrol officers. After more than thirty-two years in law enforcement, I am ready for a life change. I have submitted my resignation, effective February 13, 2026.
I have always prided myself on doing the right thing, even when it is difficult. Life is short, and I have chosen to make the remainder of mine the very best it can be for my family.
Thank you for allowing me to serve you.
Respectfully,
Frank Marks
Chief of Police
