Myers newest member of CRH police department

Former Bartholomew County Sheriff Matt Myers was sworn in this week as the newest member of the Columbus Regional Health Police Department.

CRH Police Chief Tony Pope says his organization is fortunate to obtain a law enforcement officer of the former sheriff’s caliber.

“Matt Myers brings a vast amount of experience in law enforcement training, practice, and leadership to the CRH Police Department,” Pope said. “As CRH continues to build and develop our department, Myers’ skills and expertise in the field, as well as his unique knowledge and partnerships with other public safety professionals in the service area, will be invaluable.”

Last November, Myers had announced his plan to seek the position of mayor of Columbus.

Current Mayor Jim Lienhoop had announced he did not plan to seek another term. Myers was term-limited from running for another term as sheriff.

Myers did file for the Republican nomination, but then withdrew, citing a wish to spend more time with his family.

“Over the last 30 years I’ve been in law enforcement, I have put the public before my family in a lot of situations,” Myers said while announcing Jan. 17 he was withdrawing from the race. “I’m at the age that I’m not willing to do that anymore.”

The establishment of the CRH Police Department was approved by the hospital’s board of trustees in December 2020. Three months later, Pope was sworn in as police chief after serving several years as the hospital’s manager of protective services and emergency services. Former North Vernon Police Chief James Webster is assistant chief.

While CRH police are authorized to perform traditional law enforcement duties, they are required to take certified training suited to a hospital environment. Unlike city and county officers, they may only exercise police authority on property owned, leased or occupied by the hospital.