LANCASTER COUNTY, Pa. — A new chapter has begun for the East Hempfield Township Police Department as Chief Jennifer Brubaker officially retires following more than 26 years of service, and Christopher Chase steps into the role of Chief of Police.
Brubaker leaves behind a remarkable legacy of leadership, professionalism, and dedication to public safety. Her career with East Hempfield Township began in 2000 when she joined the department as a patrol officer. Over the years, she served in numerous specialized roles, including Field Training Officer, Bike Officer, member of the Lancaster County Auto Theft Task Force, member of the Lancaster County DUI Task Force, Crisis Intervention Team Officer, and Hostage Negotiator with the Special Emergency Response Team.
Her commitment to the profession and proven leadership abilities earned her promotions throughout her career, culminating in her appointment as Chief of Police in 2022.
Brubaker also made history as the first female police chief in the department’s history, paving the way for future generations of women in law enforcement.
In addition to her service on the streets and within the department, Brubaker invested heavily in her education and professional development. She is a graduate of Elizabethtown College and earned a Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Southern New Hampshire University. Throughout her career, she completed numerous leadership, supervisory, and law enforcement training programs.
Her retirement marks the end of an era for East Hempfield Township, where she spent more than two decades helping shape the department and serving residents with distinction.
As one respected leader departs, another now takes the helm.
Christopher Chase has been appointed as the new Chief of Police for East Hempfield Township, bringing nearly two decades of law enforcement experience and public service to the position.
Before joining East Hempfield Police in 2007, Chase served as a Probation Officer with Lancaster County Adult Probation and Parole. Since joining the department, he has built a reputation for integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to serving the community.
A graduate of Warwick High School, Chase earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Kutztown University before completing a Master’s Degree from Penn State University. He is also a graduate of Northwestern University’s prestigious School of Police Staff and Command, one of the nation’s most respected leadership programs for law enforcement professionals.
Throughout his career, Chase has completed extensive training in police leadership, management, investigations, and public safety operations, preparing him to lead one of Lancaster County’s largest municipal police departments.
The transition comes at a time when many communities across Pennsylvania are focused on issues such as crime prevention, community engagement, recruitment, and public trust in law enforcement. Township officials say Chase’s experience and leadership make him well-positioned to continue the department’s mission while building upon the strong foundation established by Chief Brubaker.
For residents of Lancaster County, the leadership transition represents both a celebration of a distinguished career and optimism for the future.
As Chief Jennifer Brubaker enters retirement, East Hempfield Township residents are thanking her for more than a quarter-century of dedicated service. At the same time, they are welcoming Chief Christopher Chase as he begins the next chapter in the department’s history.
The Columbia Chronicle congratulates Chief Brubaker on her retirement and wishes Chief Chase success in his new leadership role.
