By: Lillian Lelko
Joshua Vaughn was sworn in on Jan. 26 as the newest police officer at the Collegedale Police Department (CPD), according to the department’s official Facebook page. Vaughn graduated from the Cleveland State Law Enforcement Training Academy in December 2025.
Vaughn served in the U.S. Marine Corps for 14 years, giving him a background of leadership, service and discipline, according to the Facebook post.
In an email to the Accent, Vaughn explained how his background as a Marine prepared him for the difficult moments that come with his new position.
“High stress situations are a daily part of being a police officer,” Vaughn stated. “It is our job to be the calm in the storm and help in whatever situation is thrown at us.”
According to Vaughn, he chose Collegedale because he felt that it would allow him to be actively involved with the citizens.
“I am from a relatively small town originally,” he stated. “I don’t want to just complete my role as an officer, but to be a positive part of the community.”
Assistant Police Chief Jamie Heath commented on working with Vaughn in an email to the Accent.
“We’re always excited to welcome a new member to the Collegedale team, and Officer Vaughn came to us highly recommended,” Heath stated. “We’re looking forward to the energy and enthusiasm he’ll bring, not just to the job but to the community he’ll be serving.”
Heath, a Marine Corps veteran, is especially eager to welcome another Marine to their team.
“I take particular pride in welcoming another Marine into our ranks and the values that come with that service,” stated Heath.
