‘Top notch’ farewell
Chief Sproveri receives honors after 20 years of service
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After two decades with the Warren Police Department, Chief Joseph Sproveri is stepping down from his position, bringing to a close a career marked by leadership, community involvement and continued professional development within the department.
During remarks at Monday's City Council meeting, Mayor David Wortman praised Sproveri for his service and leadership, highlighting his progression through the department and the accomplishments achieved during his tenure.
Sproveri began his career with the Warren Police Department as a patrol officer and was promoted to sergeant in 2012. He became a captain in 2019 before being nominated and sworn in as chief of police in 2020.
One of the accomplishments highlighted by city officials was the department’s achievement of premier accreditation through the Pennsylvania Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission, or PLEAC. The accreditation process provides an outside evaluation of a police department’s policies, procedures and overall professionalism.
Wortman also credited Sproveri with helping maintain strong relationships between the police department and the Warren community.
“The police force is a highly respected group,” Wortman said, noting officers routinely respond to difficult and sometimes dangerous situations while maintaining a high level of professionalism.
Wortman presented Sproveri with a token of appreciation for his years of service and thanked him for his contributions to the city.
Sproveri thanked the mayor, members of City Council and other local officials for their support during his tenure, saying the department had enjoyed a strong and professional working relationship with city leadership.
Community support, he said, has been another important part of his career.
"We have always enjoyed our community backing us," Sproveri said. "That’s not by accident or coincidence."
Sproveri acknowledged that leaving the department was not a decision he made lightly, but said he was confident in those who will continue to serve the community.
“The men and women of the police department, they’re top notch all the way around,” Sproveri said.
His departure will bring changes within the department, including upcoming promotions and other personnel moves. Sproveri said he is excited about the department’s future and the new ideas that may emerge under its next leadership.
Although he is leaving his position, Sproveri said he and his family plan to remain in the local community.
“I’m looking forward to watching them from the sidelines,” Sproveri said of the department.
Spruvery concluded his remarks by thanking the city and community for their support throughout his 20-year career.