The Village of Clinton, Michigan, is reeling from the sudden loss of Police Chief Tony Cuevas, who tragically and unexpectedly passed away on Saturday, June 21, 2025. Chief Cuevas, aged 53, had led the Clinton Police Department with dedication and integrity since his appointment in 2019. His passing has left a profound void in the tight-knit Lenawee County community he served so passionately.
Born in 1972, Tony Cuevas grew up with a strong sense of community and justice, values which guided his lifelong commitment to law enforcement. He began his career as a patrol officer in the late 1990s, quickly earning a reputation for professionalism, compassion, and reasoned judgment even in high-stress situations. A natural leader, he was eventually promoted to patrol sergeant before being named the chief of police in Clinton Village in 2019.
During his time as chief, Cuevas spearheaded several impactful initiatives aimed at improving public safety and fostering strong community relations. Under his guidance, the department launched outreach programs to build trust with residents, particularly among younger and underserved groups. He also prioritized officer wellness, implementing regular training and support systems that underscored the importance of mental health and resilience in law enforcement.
Colleagues and community members frequently described Chief Cuevas as approachable, supportive, and deeply committed to transparency. Officer Ryan Hillard recounted, “He always made time to listen—whether it was a neighbor’s concern or a rookie officer’s questions.” His reputation for open communication extended beyond department walls: he maintained regular dialogue with village officials and hosted annual town hall meetings to ensure residents had a voice in public safety decisions.
In addition to his official duties, Tony Cuevas was active in regional law enforcement networks, sharing best practices and collaborating on county-wide crime prevention strategies. His leadership made Clinton Village a benchmark for smaller departments balancing limited resources with high expectations. Beyond the badge, he was an avid outdoorsman who found solace fishing along Michigan’s lakes and hiking local trails. Those who worked with him remember his calm, steady presence—even during the most challenging incidents.
Funeral arrangements are being finalized by his family in coordination with the Village of Clinton. The community is rallying to honor his memory and support his loved ones during this difficult time.
Chief Cuevas’s sudden passing has left all who knew him in shock. Lansing-based reporter for CBS Detroit emphasized that “Clinton Police Chief Tony Cuevas dies at age 53” and confirmed his service since 2019. The chief’s loss extends beyond departmental control rooms and patrol logs—it touches every corner of Clinton Village, where he was more than an officer; he was a guardian and neighbor.
Tony Cuevas will be remembered as a devoted public servant who bridged the gap between police and people. His leadership style—firm but fair, principled but personable—left an enduring legacy on the Clinton Police Department and the broader Lenawee County region. The void his departure creates will be deeply felt, but so too will the inspiration he imparted to those who continue his mission: to serve and protect, always with empathy and honor.
He often reminded others, “Real safety comes from understanding each other,” a sentiment that guided his work—and will continue to define the spirit of community he helped build.
