Chief Gessler was born and raised in Wheeling, WV. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree from West Liberty State College, and is a graduate from the WV Police Academy, and the FBI National Academy. He and his wife of 24 years, Mari, have two children.

Chief Gessler started his law enforcement career in 1985, as a Patrol Officer. Past assignments include vice, drug unit, and an assignment to the Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force. Gessler worked as an investigator and undercover on several major cases, while deputized by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Promoted through the department ranks to Sergeant, in May of 2001 he was appointed the Chief of Police.

Chief Gessler has been recognized by the FOP Associates as Police Officer of the Quarter, the WV Trial Lawyers and Wheeling Jaycees as Police Officer of the Year, and the Department of Justice. He is a member of the WV Chief’s Association and currently holds the office of President. An active member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police, Chief Gessler is West Virginia's representative to the State Association Division (SACOP) and has been appointed to the I.A.C.P Homeland Security Committee. Chief Gessler is a member of the FBI National Academy Association, and is a member of the national executive advisory board for D.A.R.E America.

Proud of his membership in many organizations, Chief Gessler believes it is not only enjoyable, but a responsibility. His past and present membership includes The Wheeling Area Soccer Association, PTA, Pike Cubs Baseball, Mountaineer Baseball Association, Youth Services Board of Directors, Triadelphia Middle Local School Improvement Council, WV Community Policing Insitute Board of Directors, Mountaineer Umpires Association, Ohio Valley Board of Approved Umpires, and the WV Intercollegiate Athletic Conference.

Gessler enjoys spending available time with his family, but his passion is baseball. A lesson he learned from a teacher and respected area baseball coach, “Character is doing the right thing, even when nobody is watching”, he believes baseball is one avenue that can bring out an individual’s character while mentoring young people. Having coached several youth teams locally, he even took a fine group of young men to Cooperstown, NY where they played in the International Tournament of Champions. A certified NCAA Division II and High School Baseball Official, during the spring, summer and fall he can be seen on the local diamonds in blue.

Back