In a transition within the Taylor University Police Department, Mike Spaulding has been appointed as the new Chief of Police, succeeding Jeff Wallace, who retired after 21 years of service.
This leadership change marks a new chapter for the university's law enforcement, with Wallace embarking in a new role as a school resource officer at Justice Intermediate School in the Marion Community School District.
As the new Chief of Police, Spaulding has expressed a strong commitment to enhancing the safety and security of the Taylor University campus. He said that one of his primary goals is to increase the visibility of the police presence on campus to deter potential criminal activity and provide a greater sense of security for students, faculty and staff.
Spaulding said that he is focused on improving the training and capabilities of his team. He plans to implement more firearms training and introduce tasers and ballistic vests as additional tools for officers.
Spaulding’s interest in law enforcement began during his middle school years. While attending a career fair in eighth grade, Spaulding was inspired by the police officers he encountered. This eventually led him to pursue a degree in criminal justice from Indiana Wesleyan University.
He went on to have a 23-year career with the Grant County Sheriff's Department, where Spaulding worked various roles, including being on the drug task force, serving as a K-9 officer and participating as a member of the SWAT team.
"I've always enjoyed helping people and being a positive presence," Spaulding said. "It's nice to be out there in the community and helping people, knowing that you can make a difference."
The arrival of Spaulding on July 13 also heralded the departure of Wallace from the role. Wallace said his decision to retire was guided by a deep sense of calling.
"I just felt like it was time,” Wallace said. “And sometimes when God taps you on the shoulder and nudges you, you just have to be responsive to it."
In Wallace’s new role as a school resource officer at Justice Intermediate School, he oversees a school of more than 550 fifth and sixth-grade students.
Wallace has found joy in building relationships with the middle school students.
"A big part of it, which was something that really drew me to it, was just getting to know the kids, develop that relationship, develop that trust," Wallace said.
Despite his departure from his role, Wallace has not severed his connection to Taylor. He continues to teach three classes, including a new introductory criminal justice course, and remains involved in campus events.
Chris Jones, vice president & chief information officer at Taylor, oversees the campus police department, said he is looking forward to what Spaulding offers in his new role.
“He shares a passion with Jeff to be here for the students and to serve the community,” Jones said. “And the experience that he brings is invaluable and will further uplift the department.”
