Local News

Bees sworn in as new police chief

The Warren City Council chambers were filled Monday evening as community members, law enforcement officers and city officials gathered to support Joseph Bees as he was sworn in as the city's new chief of police.

The ceremony was held during the council's meeting, with District Judge Raymond Zydonik administering the Oath of Office to Bees.

Bees succeeds Joseph Sproveri, who recently retired as chief of the Warren Police Department.

City officials highlighted Bees' 14 years of service with the department and his progression through the ranks, from patrolman to sergeant, captain and now chief.

Following the oath, Bees thanked those who attended the ceremony and said the turnout demonstrated the strong working relationships among law enforcement agencies in the Warren area.

"We have a member from every law enforcement agency in Warren here, and I think that speaks a lot for how well we all work together," Bees said.

Bees also credited Sproveri with leaving the department in a strong position and said he intends to continue building on that foundation.

"Chief Sproveri has left me in a very good spot, so it's just keeping the ship sailing," Bees said.

He added that he is fortunate to work with a strong group of officers who make his job easier and said he was looking forward to taking on the new challenge.

After the swearing-in, council members invited current and former law enforcement officers in attendance to join Bees for a group photograph. Bees' young son also participated in the photo, wearing a police officer uniform of his own.

The large turnout provided a visible show of support for the new chief as he begins his tenure leading the Warren Police Department.