Police Department

Non- Emergency Number 419-746-2735 – 24/7 
Emergency 911 – Please Note: You will be directed to the Erie County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch 
Email: Police@Kelleysisland.us
Facebook : Village of Kelleys Island Police Department

In an emergency CALL 911. That is the best and fastest way to dispatch Island Safety Services. If possible, use a land line as there are many low and no signal areas. PLEASE NOTE: We cannot answer questions about events, the weather or if the ferry is running.

Chief James E. Bartus II
policechief@kelleysisland.us

MISSION STATEMENT:

The mission of the Kelleys Island Police Department is to Serve the residents and tourists alike, making a difference one interaction at a time, with Respect, Integrity, Honor and Professionalism

Scroll down to find out:

ABOUT US
OFFICERS
RECOGNIZING OUTSTANDING  SERVICE
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
HISTORY OF THE JAIL
POLICE CHIEFS, CONSTABLES & MARSHALS
KELLEYS ISLAND MAYOR’S COURT
KIPD JOB APPLICATION

ABOUT US

The Kelleys Island Police Department is a dedicated law enforcement agency serving the small, close-knit community of Kelleys Island. Our Mission is to ensure the safety and security of both residents and visitors. Officers handle routine patrols, respond swiftly to emergencies, and enforce local and sate laws with professionalism and fairness. Beyond law enforcement, our officers engage actively with the community by organizing public safety programs, fun and educational activities for children, families and events that foster commitment to serve our island and our visitors. The department plays a vital role in preserving Kelleys Island as a safe, welcoming place for everyone. 

The Police Department offers many services including WINTER HOUSE CHECK (popular with our seniors, mobility impaired and house bound residents) and GOLF CART INSPECTION FORM, required before you can get plates for your cart. See below for more information on golf cart guidelines. You can file a CITIZEN COMPLAINT about a police officer, or make a VOLUNTARY STATEMENT about the incident.

RECOGNIZING OUTSTANDING SERVICE 

The Kelleys Island Police Department places a strong emphasis on recognizing and rewarding its officers for outstanding service and dedication to the community. Officers who go above and beyond in protecting and serving the Island’s residents and visitors are honored with accommodations and KIPD Officer of The Year Plaque. 
Previous Award Recipients: 
2024 – Ofc. Jack Wade
2023 – Ofc. Erik Melendez
2022- Ofc. Michael Rodriguez 
2021 – Ofc. James Bartus & Teresa Campbell

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 

The Kelleys Island Police Dept. enforces the laws of the State and local ordinances, various questions that we get asked are:

  • Can my child drive the golf cart?
    No, Golf Carts are Motor Vehicles in the State of Ohio and can only be operated by a licensed driver. 
  • Is the island a “DORA” district?
    No, the island is not a DORA district, all open containers must remain in the establishment that you purchased them from and are also NOT permitted on golf carts.  
  • Do you perform golf cart inspections?
    Yes, we inspect golf carts for title and license plate purposes by appointment only. Monday – Friday 10am-5pm / Saturday – 10am-12pm /  Sunday -10am-12pm

Our clerical and administrative staff supports these Village operations. Safety personnel can be contacted by telephone for non-emergency services at 419-746-2735, or by e-mail directed to the Village Clerk or the Police.

KELLEYS ISLAND MAYOR’S COURT

Court dates are regularly scheduled every two weeks and held at the Kelleys Island Mayors Court in the Town hall located at 122 Division St. If you have any questions regarding fines or have any questions regarding your court appearance, please contact the Clerk of Court Rosalyn Ahner Monday- Friday at: 419-366-6206

A LITTLE HISTORY ABOUT THE JAIL

It had been long lamented that there was no lock-up on the island. The increase in transient workers at the quarry and the increasing popularity of the island created a problem for the peaceful islanders. The first positive steps in building a jail were taken in early August 1885 when the County Commissioners announced they were going to have a jail built on Kelley’s Island.  READ MORE ABOUT THIS UNIQUE BUILDING

POLICE CHIEFS, CONSTABLES &MARSHALS
The men who served this Island

The first Constable, Joseph Willett, was appointed in 1840. Pictured here is Chief Norbie McKillips. READ MORE

KIPD JOB OPENINGS AND APPLICATION

We are hiring officers for the upcoming season. Please download the KIPD Application and submit to be considered for open positions for the upcoming season. When filled out completely return with all required documentation to the following email: policechief@kelleysisland.us.
Click here to download the KIPD Job Application.

The Village of Kelleys Island
121 Addison St., Kelleys Island OH 43438
419-746-2535 Office@KelleysIsland.us

The official site of the Village of Kelleys Island Ohio