Full Circle

By Mike Ullery

Chief David Friend took the oath of office to assume his duties as Chief of Police in the Village of Covington, Ohio, on Monday, July 6. It was the second time that the veteran officer has taken the Covington police department oath. The first time was in 1978 when he joined the department while attending the Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy.

Covington’s chief at the time was Billie Ray. Little did rookie Officer Friend know at the time that both he and Ray would hold the distinction of being two of the longest-serving officers in our county’s history. Between them, Ray and Friend have nearly 100 years of law enforcement service to the citizens of Miami County and neighboring communities.

Friend has always been a hands-on law enforcement officer, much preferring to be on patrol or interacting with citizens in the community to sitting behind a desk. He is especially interested in working with schools. He has held School Resource Officer (SRO) and DARE positions throughout his career, and he plans to continue his school involvement with Covington Exempted Village Schools. His love of teaching students has been a part of his life. He earned a bachelor's degree in education before going on to earn his master's degree in criminal justice.

Miami County Sheriff Dave Duchak said, “It is great to have Dave back in Miami County. His experience in law enforcement will benefit all citizens in this county. I look forward to working with him again, starting with our chief’s meeting next week.”

When many folks his age are looking to sit by the fireside, Friend still carries a burning passion to serve. So, 38 years after first donning a uniform, the citizens of Covington can be proud to have a new chief of police with knowledge, experience, and passion for serving his community … right back where it all started.

Friend is a 1971 graduate of Miami East High School. He and his wife, Sheila, have been married for 45 years. They have three adult children and 11 grandchildren. He was a member of Miami East’s first wrestling team back in “the day”, a love of which continues to this day as he has been officiating wrestling for the Ohio High School Athletic Association for four decades. He can often be found with a fishing pole in hand looking to catch a mess of panfish. Life is good.

Editor’s note: Dave Friend is also a former officer of the Tipp City Police Department.