Former Solon Police Chief Nominated For County Sheriff

SOLON, OH — A former Solon police chief has been nominated for sheriff of Cuyahoga County.

Christopher Paul Viland was selected by Cuyahoga County Executive Armond Budish as a candidate to lead the Cuyahoga County Sheriff's office. Viland was an officer with Solon police from 2011 to 2019.

“With more than 33 years of experience, Christopher is a proven leader in the fields of law enforcement and criminal justice,” Budish said in a statement. “His commitment to the safety of our residents through his roles with the City of Cleveland and the City of Solon prove that he would be a great fit as Cuyahoga County Sheriff.”

During his career in Solon, Viland worked as a patrol officer, detective, patrol sergeant, patrol lieutenant, detective lieutenant and chief of police. Viland also worked as police inspector general for Cleveland's Department of Public Safety, Division of Police.

Viland would take over a sheriff's office embroiled in scandal. The state launched an investigation into the mistreatment of prisoners, along with multiple possible crimes occurring within Cuyahoga County Jail.

While Cuyahoga County Council considers Viland for the role of sheriff, Lt. Josef Greiner will serve as interim sheriff. Greiner's role as interim sheriff was announced on Tuesday.