New South Strabane police chief getting accustomed to role
Drew Hilk knew he had a tough act to follow when he took over as chief of the South Strabane Township police department a little more than eight months ago.
“I’m always looking for the opportunity to advance and face new challenges,” said Hilk, who was selected by the township supervisors to replace Donald Zofchak. “I saw this as a way to grow.”
Zofchak retired at the end of February after more than four decades on the job. He joined the department in 1974 and became chief four years later.
“I liked working for him,” Hilk said of his predecessor. “He is a great guy.”
A 1990 graduate of Trinity Area High School, Hilk received his bachelor’s degree in criminology from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Five years later, he earned a master’s degree in criminology at the same institution. Hilk is a lifelong resident of the township. His mother and brother also live in the township.
His first job was with East Washington police. Hilk also was an officer with Washington’s police department. He was hired as a part-time officer by the township in 1995 before he became full time the following year. Prior to being named chief, he spent 11 years as a sergeant.
While he was a sergeant, Hilk handled training his fellow officers on firearms at the shooting range, in addition to handling administrative duties.
Hilk said he has not made any drastic changes over the last several months. There were two promotions. Ken Torboli was promoted to detective sergeant, and Seth Kelley was promoted to sergeant to fill the vacancy created when Hilk was made chief.
“He (Zofchak) had us headed in the right direction,” Hilk said. “If it is not broke, don’t fix it.
“I want the department to continue to grow,” the chief added. “I will chase every opportunity to help the officers do their job, as well as look for technology to make it more efficient and safer for them.”
Hilk said he welcomes new development in the township.
“Although it does present unique challenges for our resources and time,” Hilk said. “The businesses in the township have been good neighbors for the department.”
The chief said he would like to see the department continue to give back through different programs.
“I’d like to do more things to engage the community and spend more time with the residents,” Hilk said.
He encourages his officers to regularly walk through the nearby Trinity East Elementary School.
“It was always the best part on my day when I was on patrol,” Hilk said. “The kids are awesome and like giving high fives. The visit is always a good morale boost.
“The school is right next to the station,” he added. “It is a perfect opportunity for us to put a face to the badge and officer. And it is usually a smiling face, which is better than our expression may be if they encounter us in a serious situation.”
Hilk is still working his way through delegating certain assignments to officers.
“Every day, I have to budget my time around meetings and administrative work,” said Hilk.
“I couldn’t do it without Cindy Chastel,” he said of the department’s secretary. “I cannot do it without her.”
Hilk continues to teach at the police academy through California University of Pennsylvania and Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Some of his students are criminal justice majors, while others are going through the police academy with the intention of becoming an officer. He also taught at community colleges in Allegheny and Beaver counties after getting his master’s degree.