The Cranberry Township Board of Supervisors has selected Kenneth Ruckel to serve as the Township’s new Chief of Police.
Ruckel’s hire was ratified at the November 20 Board meeting, with a start date of December 1. He will replace the retiring Kevin Meyer, who has served as chief since 2015.
“We are thankful to Chief Meyer for his service and for leading this Department with professionalism and integrity,” said Bruce Hezlep, Board of Supervisors Chairman. “We believe Mr. Ruckel will continue that service while overseeing a Department that will grow and change to meet the community’s needs.”
Ruckel is a United States Air Force Reserve veteran, serving as an Air Transportation Specialist from 1994 to 2002. He possesses a Bachelor of Arts degree in Administration of Criminal Justice from LaRoche College and attended the FBI National Academy.
He began his law enforcement career a Patrol Officer for the Hanover Township, Mount Oliver Borough, and Allegheny County Police Departments. He rose through the ranks of the Allegheny County Police Department, spending time as a Detective in the General Investigations and Homicide Units before becoming a Sergeant and taking on roles as Shift and Unit Supervisor.
As a Lieutenant, he served as Unit Commander, and later as Division Commander, Inspector of Police, overseeing the Airport Division at Pittsburgh International Airport. Most recently, he served as Division Commander for Administration/Patrol at the County headquarters.
Ruckel said his wealth of experience and success in the line of service comes thanks to the support of those around him.
“As I step into the role of Chief of Police for Cranberry Township, I am reminded of the many individuals who mentored and supported me throughout my career,” he said. “From my early days as a patrol officer to my years leading investigations and supervising specialized units, each step has been shaped by leaders who invested in my growth and pushed me to be better. I am equally grateful for the unwavering support of my family, whose steady encouragement has carried me through every challenge and opportunity.”
Ruckel intends to “pay it forward” by mentoring the next generation of officers and building on a staff that is dedicated, service-minded, and wants to be in Cranberry Township.
“Together, we will strengthen a department that already exemplifies professionalism, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to serving our community with honor,” he said.