Marine City Police Dept. has a new sergeant

Former sheriff’s deputy Scott Baldwin sworn-in

By Barb Pert Templeton

The March 5 meeting of the Marine City Commission began with a presentation by the city’s Police Chief, James Heaslip, as he formerly promoted Officer Scott Baldwin to the position of sergeant within his department.

“It’s with full confidence that I submit this formal recommendation for the promotion of Officer Scott Baldwin to the position of sergeant with the Marine City Police Department,” Heaslip said while addressing the commission.

The chief gave an overview of his department to the commission in January and at that time he characterized Baldwin as a new hire who came to the department six-months ago. He said Baldwin had retired as a lieutenant from the St. Clair County Sheriff’s Department and quickly moved from part-time to full-time status in Marine City.

In announcing his promotion before the commission last night Heaslip read from a prepared statement. He said Baldwin met and exceeded the required qualifications for the promotion.

“As we continue to prioritize a high standard of public safety and administrative excellence, bringing a candidate of Officer Baldwin’s caliber in our department represents a significant strategic win for the city,” Heaslip said. “The promotion of Office Baldwin to the position of police sergeant allows us to continue forward our commitment to excellence within the ranks.”

Heaslip’s continued saying Baldwin’s professional background is defined by a distinguished 25-year career with the St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office. His tenure there provided him with a comprehensive understanding of police service needs, having served 17 years as a Road Patrol Deputy before rising through the ranks.

Heaslip continued noting Baldwin’s five years as a sergeant focused on the direct supervision and mentorship of personnel.

“A skill set that will be instrumental in fostering the professional growth of our own junior officers,” Heaslip added. “Furthermore, Scott’s most recent three years as a lieutenant in the Detective Bureau—where he also oversaw the Records Bureau and FOIA compliance—equips

him with the high-level administrative expertise required to navigate today’s complex transparency and reporting mandates.”

In the promotion to sergeant in Marine City, Heaslip said they are not simply gaining an experienced command officer; the city will be gaining a proven leader with the institutional knowledge to hit the ground running.

“I am certain his transition to our team will enhance our operational efficiency and strengthen our commitment to the citizens we serve,” Heaslip said.

Delivering a brief statement of his own, Baldwin thanked officials for the opportunity and for their trust in him. In a department the size of Marine City’s he said they aren’t just colleagues they are a team that relies on each other during every shift.

Baldwin noted that he’s excited to step into his new role and to continue providing law enforcement services “rooted in compassion”.

“I’ve always believed that our most effective took is our ability to communicate, as I take on these new responsibilities I want to lead by the principal of listening to understand rather than just listening to respond,” Baldwin said.

He said he looks forward to supporting the chief’s vision and ensuring fellow officers have just what they need to serve the community with integrity.

“I’m grateful to serve in this new capacity,” Baldwin concluded.

The new sergeant than stepped up to shake the hands and receive congratulations from members of the commission.

During commissioner comments members of the board offered congratulations to Baldwin on his new position with the city.

Commissioner Trish May was absent from the March 5 meeting.