TOLEDO, OH (Toledo News Now) - Monday was a big day in Toledo, as Deputy Chief George Kral took the reins as the city's newest Chief of Police.
Chief Kral was sworn in at an official ceremony Monday morning. After being sworn in he was greeted with a standing ovation.
"I told my wife when I was through with the academy I want to be chief of police one day," said Kral.
"I'm just really excited for him, he's worked for it, he's wanted it all his life and he puts everything into it so I'm excited for him," said Kral's wife Teresa.
"To see a man live out his dream and you know this department is in the hands of a person who has the same philosophy in law enforcement is humble and knows what the responsibility is all about," said Major D. Michael Collins.
While addressing the crowd, Kral said he plans to equally divide his time between officers and the tools needed to keep our community and officers safe.
"We could give everyone every technological asset in this world, but if they don't want to be here and are not motivated to go out and do the job its not going to do any good. A big part of my time as chief is moral and to make sure our officers are taken care of," said Kral.
As he steps into the the position, a lot of local neighborhoods are discussing what issues they want to see him tackle first.
A main concern, asking for a stronger police presence in the neighborhoods as well as increasing the number of cruisers and officers on the roads.
Willys Parkway block watch leader Tina Scott says she feels like violent crimes are on the rise in her area, especially when it comes to armed robberies. Scott has faith the new chief can solve the problem.
When we first talked to the Deputy Chief Kral in November, he said it was going to be a priority for him to get out of his office and onto the streets to get a first-hand look at what's going on.
Scott says that's one of the best ways to help solve her top concerns.
"There is more armed robberies whether it be a knife or a gun. People are getting robbed for their purses. The stores are being robbed," she said. "It's just really ridiculous."
