With 2026 being our country's 250th anniversary, we wanted to periodically share moments in the history of the York County Regional Police Department. The first installment is focusing on Chief Jesse M. Scholl

 

 

 

As communities across the nation prepare to celebrate America250 in 2026—honoring our country’s evolution and inspiring the next generation—York Township stands in a place where history has always mattered.

 

Founded in 1741, York, Pennsylvania, is often called the “first Capital of the United States,” where the Continental Congress adopted the Articles of Confederation between 1777 and 1778. Nearly 200 years after York Township was incorporated in 1753, another important chapter in local history began: the formation of the York Township Police Department in the mid-1950s.

 

What started as a practical concern grew into a lasting institution. Members of the Optimist Club began exploring ways to enforce a 35-mile-per-hour speed limit through the township to better protect residents. They soon learned that Pennsylvania required a full-time officer to enforce such a limit. Until that time, patrol responsibilities in the township were handled by the State Police. From a simple desire to slow traffic and save lives, a municipal police department was born.

Two decades later, the department would enter a new era of leadership.

 

In May 1972, township officials appointed a 45-year-old Norristown police lieutenant, Jesse M. Scholl, to lead the department following the December 1971 vacancy left by Chief Burnell N. Leipold. Scholl, a 20-year veteran of the Norristown Police Department, joined that force in 1952 and officially took over operations of York Township’s 10-man department on June 5, 1972.

 

His career reflected both steady advancement and commitment to professionalism. Beginning as a motorcycle patrolman in Norristown, Scholl rose to command a staff services unit where he supervised police records, accident reports, equipment management, and in-service training. He attended specialized schools in juvenile problems and police management and supervision and was a member of the Training Officers Association of Pennsylvania. Out of 11 original applicants, he was one of six finalists considered for the York Township post—ultimately selected to guide the department forward.

 

Scholl’s service extended far beyond local policing. After serving in the Navy, Army, and Air Force, he retired from the Air Force Reserve after 33 years as a Master Sergeant. During World War II, he served aboard the Kankakee, Severn, and Hector, traveling the world twice. His military background instilled discipline and global perspective—qualities that would shape his leadership in York Township.

 

Committed to modernization and officer efficiency, Chief Scholl championed forward-thinking improvements. In 1975, he led the acquisition of a microfilm camera and reader-copier system at a cost of $13,000—an investment that would preserve all township police records from 1970 forward. An intern from York College assisted in filming older documents, demonstrating Scholl’s openness to collaboration and innovation.

 

Public safety remained his constant priority. In July 1976, as juvenile arrests began to climb, York Township revised its curfew ordinance at Scholl’s request. He recognized the need for stronger measures than simply releasing juvenile offenders to their parents. His focus was not only enforcement, but prevention and accountability.

 

Operational improvements continued. In 1977, the department purchased five new cruisers for $26,386.75 from K & K Dodge in Wrightsville, trading in three older vehicles. One retired police vehicle was reassigned for use by the township fire chief—an example of practical stewardship of public resources.

 

Beyond his official duties, Scholl served as President of Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 73, reflecting his dedication to supporting fellow officers. He had served as Chief of York Township for five years, leaving behind a department stronger, more modern, and better prepared for the future.

 

Even in retirement, public service remained central to his life. Scholl was elected Constable in North Hopewell Township, where he became outspoken about systemic challenges facing constables—who were required to purchase their own uniforms and equipment. In 1993 alone, more than 33,000 warrants went unserved as unfunded constables were tasked with transporting prisoners, serving warrants, and evicting tenants.

 

Over time, improvements in processing, expanded services within the Sheriff’s Department, implementation of Central Booking, and stronger judicial collaboration helped ease these burdens. Today, constables primarily preserve the peace at polling places during elections and perform judicial duties such as serving writs and warrants.

Chief Jesse M. Scholl passed away on October 8, 2005, but his legacy endures.

 

Today, the York Township Police Department serves as the foundation of the York County Regional Police Department (YCRPD), under the leadership of Chief Timothy L. Damon. The department stands as the anchor of regional policing—built upon decades of dedication from officers like Scholl and the families who supported them.

 

As Pennsylvania prepares to honor the past, celebrate the present, and inspire the future through America250, the history of York Township policing deserves recognition. From a 35-mile-per-hour speed limit initiative to a modern regional force, the story is one of growth, adaptation, and commitment to community safety.

 

On behalf of YCRPD, we acknowledge and thank the many officers and their families who have served this great community. It is both an honor and a responsibility to carry their legacy forward—and to inspire the next generation of officers who will write the next chapter in our department’s proud history.

 

*****

Samantha L. Dorm, Grant Administrator

York County Regional Police Department

Feb. 23, 2025

 

Resources:

York Township 250th Anniversary Book

 https://yorktownshippa.gov/wp-content/uploads/250th-Anniversary-Book.pdf

Various articles from Newspapers.com