MetroParks of Butler County’s rangers are now patrolling the parks as MetroParks Police. The latest stage in the division’s rebranding from “rangers” to “police” is the debut of new officer uniforms, which are a change from ranger brown to police blue. A redesigned police patch and new bike uniforms were also included as part of the rebranding plan. Park visitors will start seeing officers in their blue uniforms beginning September 5.

In the past several years, other Ohio park districts have also made the move from “rangers” to “police” for similar reasons as MetroParks. “It’s important for visitor and staff safety that people recognize our officers as public safety personnel” said MetroParks’ Chief of Police, Scott Gaviglia. Some agencies refer to their naturalist staff as rangers, and
“rebranding will help clarify our officers’ role as certified peace officers for the public” he said. “The parks are also becoming a popular destination for national events, and changing our look to better align with other police agencies will help visitors to Butler County recognize that we are police officers-and we are here to help them.”

The responsibilities of MetroParks’ nine full-time and part-time officers have not changed, and they continue to work diligently to keep the MetroParks safe and secure.