About Us

History of the Shelby Township Police Department

The Shelby Township Police Department was established in 1954 as Shelby Township transitioned from a rural farming community into a growing suburban municipality. What began with a single full-time officer has developed into a modern police agency serving one of Macomb County’s largest townships.

Founding Years (1954–1960s)

Prior to forming its own police department, law enforcement in Shelby Township was handled by township constables and the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office. On May 18, 1954, the township formally established the Shelby Township Police Department and hired Robert W. Smith as the first full-time officer. He later became the township’s first chief of police.

During this period, law enforcement focused primarily on basic patrol, traffic enforcement, and community safety. The department’s growth mirrored the township’s shift from farmland to residential neighborhoods, adding its first additional officers and patrol vehicles within just a few years.

The Shelby Township Police Department in 1956 consisted of 5 officers and 2 squad cars. Pictured here standing in front of the squad cars are, from left: Patrolman Larry Gerou, Patrolman Alfred Hagerman, Chief Robert Smith, Constable Jack Millard and Patrolman Ernest Hack.

Expansion and Professionalization (1970s–1990s)

As population and development accelerated, the department continued to expand staffing, equipment and facilities. This era marked the transition from a small, rural force to a structured suburban police department with dedicated administrative support, records functions, dispatch operations and investigative roles.

Additional patrol officers and supervisors were hired, vehicle fleets expanded, and radio and communications systems were upgraded. As commercial corridors, subdivisions and schools increased, so did the department’s role in traffic enforcement, accident investigation, business patrols and community response.

Modern Facilities and Specialized Units (2000s–2010s)

With continued residential and commercial growth in the early 2000s, the township recognized the need for a purpose-built, modern police facility. The department moved from shared municipal space into a dedicated headquarters on the Shelby Township municipal campus. The building was later named in honor of the department’s first chief, Robert W. Smith.

During this period the department introduced expanded services and specialized units, including:

• Traffic Bureau

• Detective Bureau

• School Resource Officers

• K-9 Unit

• Community policing and outreach programs

• Updated records and evidence management systems

These additions reflected broader national changes in policing as technology, accountability and public safety expectations evolved.

Technology, Growth and Community Focus (2015–Present)

The department continues to evolve to meet the needs of a diverse and growing population. Recent years have included:

• Expansion and renovation of police facilities

• Increased sworn staffing to support service demand

• Deployment of body-worn and in-car camera systems

• Advanced digital records and evidence systems

• Mobile and online reporting and public-safety tools

• Expanded community partnerships, youth programs and proactive traffic and safety initiatives

Today, the Shelby Township Police Department operates as a full-service law enforcement agency providing patrol, investigations, traffic enforcement, school safety, dispatch services and community policing.

Guided by Commitment to Service

Through every stage of growth and modernization, the department’s mission has remained centered on public safety, professionalism and service to residents, businesses and visitors. The Shelby Township Police Department continues to invest in training, technology and partnerships to support a safe and thriving community.