History was made in Seaman, Ohio, on Tuesday as Margaret Edwards was officially sworn in as the first-ever female Chief of Police for the Village of Seaman. Edwards, a Seaman native and 27-year veteran of law enforcement, is breaking barriers while continuing her unwavering commitment to the community.
A 1995 graduate of North Adams High School and a 1997 graduate of the police academy, Edwards has spent her entire law enforcement career in the Village of Seaman. Joining the police department in 1997 as an officer, she worked her way up the ranks, becoming Corporal in 2015 and Sergeant in 2023. Edwards also stepped in as Interim Chief during critical times, but her recent appointment as Chief of Police marks a historic milestone.
“Margaret has given the Village so much, whether that be as a private citizen, a patrol officer, or Interim Chief,” said Mayor David Hughes. “There really is nothing we have asked her to help us with that she is not willing to do with 100% effort. I am proud to have her serve as our Chief of Police.”
The swearing-in ceremony, held on January 13 at the Village Council meeting, was an opportunity for her family, law enforcement mentors, and peers to witness this momentous occasion. While the appointment ensures no lapse in leadership for the Village, Edwards’ impact goes far beyond her official duties.
In addition to her position as Chief, Edwards works full-time as an investigator with the Southwest Ohio Developmental Center (SODC) in Batavia, a role she has held for 25 years. She also volunteers extensively with the American Legion, assists with security for local school events, and serves as Vice President of the Seaman-North Adams Alumni Board—all while raising her three daughters: Mona, Johnie, and Kloey.
Village Solicitor Lisa Rothwell expressed admiration for Edwards’ dedication. “Margaret has been a tremendous asset to the Village of Seaman, Ohio—whether that be from her law enforcement career or her devotion to the community she serves. I couldn’t be prouder of her, nor can I think of anyone else who has so selflessly devoted their time and energy to the Village of Seaman.”
Edwards takes on the role of Chief at a time when the Village is still seeking to fill both part-time and full-time patrol positions. Her priority is ensuring the safety of the community she calls home. “One of my priorities is to try to fill these positions in order to keep the Village of Seaman as safe as we can make it,” Edwards said. “This is not just a job to me; this is my home.”
As Margaret Edwards steps into her new role, her historic appointment is not only a reflection of her decades of dedication but also a testament to the progress and resilience of the Village of Seaman.
Update:9:30 PM 1/21/24 – Update: We have received reports that there was a previous female chief in Adams County. We are investigating this and will report back. For now we have updated this to Seaman. Editor’s Note: We feel this in no diminishes this achievement and remind our community to celebrate all achievements and that we can use our achievements to lift up everyone. We will update as we learn more.
