Ryncavage, Other Dignitaries Officially Launch New Police Department

January 29, 2026

LUZERNE COUNTY - Rep. Alec Ryncavage (R-Luzerne) today enthusiastically launched the grand opening of the newly formed West Side Regional Police Department (WSRPD). The ceremony celebrated the historic regionalization effort that started more than two years ago to unify the police services for Edwardsville and Larksville boroughs.

Ryncavage was joined by many dignitaries, including Sen. Lisa Baker (R-20), Congressman Rob Bresnahan, District Attorney Sam Sanguedolce, Luzerne County Council Chairman Jimmy Sabatino, PA Department of Community and Economic Development Secretary for Community Affairs and Development Rick Vilello, and Chief Joseph Coffay, the newly appointed Chief of WSRPD.

“Today’s event is the culmination of many hours of researching, planning and meetings to come up with the best solution for the boroughs of Edwardsville and Larksville,” said Ryncavage. “This newly formed regional department increases the presence of law enforcement in our communities and gives the officers more opportunities for growth. And by using the site of the former St. Anthony’s Church, we are bringing new life into the community by replacing a blighted property with a modern facility. I’m very excited to welcome West Side Regional to the community.”

Today, Ryncavage also announced a $500,000 grant that he secured alongside Baker to support the startup and transition costs for the West Side Regional Police Department.

“The principle behind a regional police force is sound practically and financially – greater coverage, protection, and accountability than what two smaller units could be expected to achieve,” said Baker. “Commendations are due to the local officials, community leaders, and law enforcement professionals who committed time and energy to this undertaking.”

“This regional partnership between Edwardsville and Larksville is a new commitment to stronger, safer neighborhoods,” said Bresnahan. “The West Side Regional Police Department is an excellent collaboration by these boroughs, and I am pleased to join in celebrating the department’s activation. Today is a great example of what can be achieved when local officials and community partners work together for the people they represent.”

Today’s event also featured a tour of St. Anthony’s Church campus at Jackson and Pace streets, which will serve as the future headquarters for the department. The vacant site, located along the border of both boroughs, will be demolished and remediated as part of a broader neighborhood improvement effort.

“I am greatly enthusiastic to watch the success of the new West Side Regional Police Department. To see both the officers and the government leaders come together in a more efficient, joint effort is the way of the future in light of increasing costs and demands on resources,” said Sanguedolce. “The addition of Chief Coffay from Wilkes-Barre ensures the leadership needed for this new entity, and we are eager for everyone to come together to serve and protect Edwardsville and Larksville.”

“Luzerne County is made up of 76 municipalities that often compete for limited resources,” said Sabatino. “As we look to the future, it’s important for the county to support and encourage regional efforts like this that expand services, reduce duplication and strengthen public safety. This model shows how communities can work together for the greater good of the entire county.”

“We want to congratulate Edwardsville and Larksville boroughs for their collaboration and commitment to move this initiative forward. The West Side Regional Police Department will provide enhanced services and improved public safety for residents in Luzerne County while also lowering costs for taxpayers,” said Vilello. “At the Governor’s Center for Local Government Services, we are dedicated to helping our municipalities achieve goals that improve quality of life for residents and keep communities strong.” 

The new department launched on Jan. 1, with 20 sworn officers and an annual operating budget of approximately $2.5 million. WSRPD will deliver modern, cost-effective and community-focused policing to Edwardsville and Larksville boroughs.



Representative Alec Ryncavage
119th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Melissa Fox
717.260.6522
mefox@pahousegop.com