By BOB SHRALUKA
WZBD.com
Decatur native Zach Hess, until recently the town marshal of Geneva, is returning home to become a member of the Decatur Police Department.
Police Chief Kevin Gerber said he will be sworn in on May 8, bringing the city department back to full staff.
Hess (see photo) began his career in law enforcement as a reserve deputy marshal with the Geneva PD in December of 2016, then left in 20190 to pursue other employment.
He rejoined the Geneva department in December of 2020, was appointed interim town marshal in February of 2022, then had the interim the tag removed the following April.
The 2013 graduate of Bellmont High School graduated from the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy in September of 2021.
Hess earned the rank of Eagle Scout in May of 2013, a distinction attained only 4% of scouts since 1911.
In December of 2017, he graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice and Legal Studies and a Minor in Public Affairs from Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne.
Since he is a “lateral movement” addition, Hess will receive a $5,000 sign-on bonus and one week of vacation at the outset.
“He brings a wealth of knowledge for us,” Deputy Chief Chris Brite told the city board of works and safety on April 18.