Chris Viland Sworn In as Solon Police Chief

An emotional Chris Viland was sworn in Tuesday night as Solon's police chief, the fifth since 1940.

City Council chambers were packed with Viland's friends and family and dozens of uniformed police officers.

After his swearing in by Mayor Susan Drucker, Viland said he had little to say except to thank his loved ones and his colleagues on the police force.

“I really don’t have anything to say except: Look around the room and you’ll understand why I’m so honored and proud," Viland said.

The crowd then gave him a standing ovation.

Viland was selected from a pool of seven candidates to succeed Wayne Godzich, who had been chief since 1996. 

A 23-year veteran of the police department, Viland was hired as a patrol officer in 1987. He became a detective in 1990, later served as a patrol sergeant and lieutenant and then was promoted to his current post, detective lieutenant, in 2000, Drucker said. Viland is also an attorney, a graduate of Cleveland State University's Marshall School of Law.

Viland will earn $105,000 annual salary as police chief.

Members of City Council congratulated Viland and wished him well in his new role. Ward 1 Councilman Rick Bell said the unity of the department was evident.

"It's very clear you have a passion for this job," he said. "All the patrol officers and the staff here clearly have your back and fully support you."