2024 Police Tribute

W illiams C ounty - F ulton C ounty A rea

Local Police Tribute N orthwest O hio P ublishing LLC (T he V illage R eporter )

MONTPELIER POLICE DEPARTMENT

Focused & Driven On Serving Their Community

By: Jenna Frisby THE VILLAGE REPORTER jenna@thevillagereporter.com The Montpelier Police Department has always been proactive in crime prevention. This is a key factor to some of the numbers they have run. In the past year their involvement numbers alone are up by 15% this alone shows how busy the department is a whole.

But that is impartially to the fact that they run small town services throughout their community.

Whether it be regular business checks or residential checks, the MPD is proud to be proactive in running these services for their community.

The department has faced some hurdles in the past few years, the majority of the factors driving those difficulties have been with personnel. The number of available officers has not been enough to fill the open positions that have been available.

However, since the spring of 2024 the department has been able to hire and sustain officers to fill the minimum of their staffing requirements and levels.

Being minimum staffed and run does cause strain on the department and the officers as burnout can occur and everyone feels the effects on the department when one of their officers are sick or take time off.

The department’s goal is to hire two more officers in order to combat this issue and be able to successfully cover the “holes” that are created by the issue of a minimally staffed and run department.

This will ensure proper staffing around the clock even when other scheduling issues may arise. Despite a minimally run department, everyone on staff at the MPD understands that even if the department has issues, their job is to provide the community with safety and protection.

Despite negative things that may arise, the department has never let themselves be overcome by those things. Through anything the department may face or has faced, they continue to provide to the community in a positive light and will continue to be a part of the community and be involved in community events.

The MPD’s support and involvement with the community is a bridge they have sustained and will continue to in their connections with the community.

You can’t go to Montpelier without seeing the MPD. Their community involvement is something that is well noticed by all. This is something that the department has continually made a point to be involved in.

Their community is really what drives the department. Events that the MPD has consistently been a part of within the community have been:

involvement at school events, conducting courses for students, speaking engagements around the community, National Night Out, Cops N Kids, Bean Days, Memorial Day, and much more!

The community continues to recognize the MPD’s involvement in all events that take place within the village. And even despite running the department with depleted staff for the majority of 2023, they still had their full-time staff dedicate another 92 hours of volunteer time of service to events.

Not to mention the department’s reserve officers who served over 1400 hours of volunteer time. Each one of those hours of volunteer time shows the overall dedication of the department and its staff.

The MPD strives to always be a positive contact in the community and will continue to be one.

The bridge they continue to build between their department and the community sets them apart.

They are not just another agency in the community.

Rather, they are part of the community. Their evident involvement is seen from any whom are among the community.

Part of that achievement can be attributed to the department setting up their employees for success in being highly responsive to whatever situation may arise. Even in being a smaller and more rural community, the department is continually focused to serve in any capacity they can.

When it comes to how MPD helps to keep their community safe, its generated by their first goal of always being led to serve. This keeps their department’s involvement second to none.

The officers and staff at the MPD make it their job to have a positive impact on their community every CONTINUED ON PAGE A14

EDON POLICE DEPARTMENT

Department Seeks To Add SRO To Staff By: Jenna Frisby THE VILLAGE REPORTER jenna@thevillagereporter.com

Edon Police have stayed consistently busy since last year. While their service call numbers have not gone up or down, they have seen a tapering off decline in the number of calls that are domestic violence related.

Only a few of those calls have continued into the 2024 year. There really is no rhyme or reason for the reason for the domestic violence call decline, but it is looked as a positive light. According to the department, it has been noticed that these calls are often related to the economy and job market.

The department continues to serve Edon despite struggles with staffing. Something that seems to be a concern across the nation for police departments.

The department was doing better at the beginning of the year than they are now. And recently they just had another officer leave the department to accept a position closer to home for him.

However, it was extended that he would always be welcome back to the department as he served the community in such a positive light.

The department does look forward to hopefully adding a school resource officer (SRO) to their department soon. As of right now the Edon PD is working in conjunction with the school, mayor and village council to hopefully see this come to light.

Being able to have an SRO in the school would be one more thing to strengthen Edon PD’s relationship with the community. It would also give them the opportunity to be able to directly impact the kids of the community in having their presence right there within the school.

The Edon PD prides themselves on their presence within the community. For Edon being a rural community, the department understands that community it everything and getting to serve the community is their honor and privilege.

Providing officer presence is something that the Edon Police Department is purposeful about. The officers handle all calls received in a timely manner

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and return back to patrol mode in order to again offer visibility to the community.

They aim to always impact the community on every call and interaction they have with the community. Even when their officers stop someone for a traffic violation, they seek to make an impact on even those calls.

The most rewarding thing is when an officer stops someone for a traffic violation, issues a warning, and then the individual shakes the officer’s hand or tells them to be safe. Knowing that they made an impact and impression on someone simply by doing their job is one of the greatest rewards.

One of the best things about the Edon department is who the department is made up of.

The department is truly fortunate to have amazing officers who don’t just go through the motions, but that truly do their job for the right reasons.

Their officers take the extra time to know people and go beyond the expected. The work that the Edon PD’s officers do doesn’t go unnoticed as residents and the community often share their positive encounters with their officers and are beyond thankful for the work they do throughout the community.

Edon Police Department is beyond thankful to be able to be a part of a rural community and be able to impact the residents and community businesses in the positive light that they do.

They strive each day to continue to reach out to their community and make a difference in the lives of so many in doing the job they love to do.

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A8 - "The Village Reporter” / Weekly Northwest Ohio (Williams & Fulton County News)

Wednesday, July 24th, 2024

PIONEER POLICE DEPARTMENT

Pioneer Police Department Continues Working Towards A Safer Community

By: Jacob Kessler THE VILLAGE REPORTER jacob@thevillagereporter.com The Pioneer Police Department is deeply committed to fostering a safe and secure community through proactive policing and strong partnerships with residents and visitors.

Their dedication to serving the community is evident in their multifaceted approach, which encompasses various initiatives aimed at addressing community needs and promoting officer wellness.

In the current period, the organization received 778 calls for service, which represents a decrease from last year's 901 calls.

This decline in calls for service is attributed to the impact of the COVID era. The primary types of calls for service were minor thefts, domestic disputes, and fraud complaints.

Like many law enforcement agencies in Ohio, the Pioneer Police Department has confronted budget

constraints, officer recruitment, and retention issues.

To overcome these challenges, they have proactively sought additional funding through grants and financial assistance from state and federal entities, as well as private and corporate partners.

Furthermore, the department places a strong emphasis on the professional development of its officers, ensuring compliance with the Ohio Attorney General’s standards for continuing educational training.

One significant achievement for the department is the successful implementation of a new K9 unit, thanks to Officer Randy Mills's dedicated efforts.

K9 Vader has not only proven to be a valuable addition to the agency but has also provided assistance to other agencies in the region.

Officer Mills has also taken the initiative to establish a county-wide K9 training program, demonstrating the department's commitment to knowledge sharing and resource collaboration.

In addition, the department has made significant advancements in technology, acquiring and deploying new body-worn cameras (BWC) and upgrading its report-writing software, and retention servers.

These technological enhancements align the department with national best practices and enable seamless information sharing with its dispatch center and other county agencies.

The Pioneer Police Department has also shown a proactive and comprehensive approach to enhance community safety and officer wellness.

The School Resource Officer (SRO) program, Sgt. Jim Snivley, has played a vital role in collaborating with North Central Local Schools and the Village of Pioneer to ensure the safety and well-being of the community.

Continuing, the department has actively pursued grants for various initiatives, with a current focus set on securing funding for an Automated External

Defibrillator (AED), through a grant, to improve emergency response times.

To maintain operational standards and diversity goals, the department has also partnered with Lexipol to uphold its policy manual and to provide daily training bulletins, and to ensure certification with the Ohio Collaborative Community-Policing Advisory Board.

A significant aspect of the department's initiative is its unwavering commitment to officer wellness.

Recognizing the vital importance of mental and physical health for first responders, the department aims to establish an Officer Wellness Program, providing crucial support to officers to address the specific challenges they face in their line of duty.

Additionally, the department actively promotes healthy habits among officers, emphasizing good sleep and nutrition habits, and providing access to fitness facilities.

Continuing on with officer wellness, the department has helped to foster a mindset of growth.

A good example would include the department’s newest officer, Jacob Speiss, who has been rapidly advancing his expertise in the field and is proving to be an invaluable asset to the agency.

Officer Speiss has recently completed comprehensive training at OPOTA and has successfully obtained certifications as an instructor in Chemical Aerosol and expandable baton techniques for the agency. He will be spearheading the coordination of training for the agency in the early summer months.

The Pioneer Police Department's comprehensive approach to community safety, technological advancement, and officer wellness is a testament to their unwavering commitment to serving and protecting the community.

Through their collaborative efforts and proactive initiatives, the department continues to play a pivotal role in ensuring a safe and secure environment for all community members.

WILLIAMS COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE

Williams County Sheriff Tom Kochert Shares Update On Department Activity

By: Sheriff Tom Kochert The Williams County Sheriff’s Office has seen an increase in activity for the past year, especially in narcotics related cases. Activity has also been steady in the child abuse and neglect category, with the detective assigned, JFS is keeping very busy.

Traffic enforcement has been stepped up, due to full staffing and a renewed effort towards OVI and drug interdiction stops.

Recently, our officers received training from the OSP, as well as stops, approaches, search and seizure, and vehicle searches to further this agenda of traffic interdiction for the county.

Part of my goals for this term as sheriff is to substantially curtail drunk driving, and drug related traffic issues. Aggressive patrol, aggressive interdiction, and prosecution of OVI and drug related offenses are one of my top priorities for 2024.

The numbers have increased in the above-listed areas, especially OVI and drug related offenses.

Societal changes, economics, and a general drift away from traditional values have contributed to the breakdown of families, decreased attendances at our churches, and a general feeling of anxiety within the general public.

Recent world events are contributing to a feeling of waiting for the other shoe to drop, while very little good news is being offered from our governmental authorities.

Mental health issues, and the treatment for them, are the ever-present problem we now encounter very frequently. This scenario presents unique challenges for us in the law enforcement world.

Much different than the society that existed when I began my career. Many new and perplexing challenges for training, retention, mental health awareness, and criminal technological advancements to be concerned with. Narcotics, and the specter of drug addiction and treatment now consume a huge portion of our operational planning.

This office has overcome one of the largest operational difficulties facing law enforcement today; that is, recruitment and retention.

I am currently at one of the highest, if not the highest, staffing levels in the agency’s history. As a bonus, three of my new hires this past year have been US veterans, two Marines, one Army.

I have been blessed with multiple applicants for each position I have offered and was able to choose the “cream of the crop" when hiring.

This trend is continuing, as even though I currently do not have openings, I am still getting applicants! I believe this is due to the atmosphere in the agency, the amount and quality of training I am offering, the new equipment, and above all the quality of my command staff.

I have strived to get the best sergeants and command staff to lead the agency I can find.

Deputies are now able to expect a variety of potential openings and career paths in the coming years.

These include Detective, MAN unit operator, JFS Detective, K-9 officer, SRT team operator, and dive team operator.

With road patrol opening to a full complement of officers, we can now deploy many different law

enforcement capabilities in the county. Capabilities that have not existed for a while, if ever.

We continue to explore new areas of enforcement, new training progressions, and better command staff training and career development opportunities.

Supervisors now are tasked with completing the S.T.E.P. program once becoming a sergeant, and this is showing its benefits in many ways.

Supervisor liability, command decisions, benefits of accountability, report writing, and above all servant leadership qualities are now the expected norm, not a rogue idea.

We have expanded into many areas this past year, with a special response team formation for special tactical response situations.

These include hostage/negotiating, active shooter, fugitive recovery, armed standoff encounters, and the like. We have also added a 10-member dive team, fully funded with training and certification as well as equipment costs.

Both of these assets were of no cost to the county taxpayers, as grants and donations were used to implement them. We have also expanded our road patrol to a point where we are now implementing cross training with agencies like Ohio State Patrol, running interdiction and OVI projects, and traffic law enforcement projects.

We value citizen input and seek to make our deputies a common sight in even the remote areas of the county, day or night!

CONTINUED ON PAGE A13

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Wednesday, July 24th, 2024

"The Village Reporter” / Weekly Northwest Ohio (Williams & Fulton County News) - A9

FULTON COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE

Fulton County Sheriff's Office Works To Support The Local Community By: Jacob Kessler THE VILLAGE REPORTER jacob@thevillagereporter.com The Fulton County Sheriff’s Office is a department that likes to make its presence known. This helps to deter crime before it even begins.

Deputies drive over 300,000 miles annually patrolling the county to achieve this goal. The patrolling conducted by deputies helps to find situations that just don’t appear right. However, Deputies are not able to be everywhere at all times.

This is where help from the public comes in. Sheriff Roy Miller explained that citizens play an important role.

Calls received from the public are always followed up on. No matter how small the issue may seem, citizens are encouraged to call the office when they see something that may not look right.

Of course, communication from the general public is not only about reporting incidents.

“We have received several phone calls from people thanking deputies for their professionalism and the way they may have handled a situation. I see our office as servants to the citizens of Fulton County.”

“If you treat people with respect, then they tend to treat you with respect. I want our citizens to have good communication with our office.

People should feel comfortable calling into our office with a complaint, information, or a compliment.”

These compliments have come from a variety of interactions with members of the public. Some interactions from this past year include the following.

“Last October, Swanton PD and deputies were advised of an Amber Alert for an abducted child out of Cleveland. The one-year-old child was taken by her father.”

“Swanton PD located the vehicle, and it would not stop. Stop sticks were deployed successfully by Deputy

Josh Buehrer. The vehicle then stopped, and the child was removed from the car unharmed.”

“In another case, a 14-year-old girl was abducted by her father. The father took the daughter without the mother’s knowledge from Forrest Mobile Park. The dispatcher was able to gather information quickly to let law enforcement know the driver’s information and vehicle description.”

“Even though our deputies were unable to locate the vehicle, the dispatcher was able to relay information to Lucas County. Toledo Police Department was able to locate the vehicle and recover the child safely.”

Compliments are also in store for the department due to all the help provided to local events. “The deputies and staff in the sheriff’s office volunteer at many events in their communities like the Delta Chicken Festival and Wauseon Homecoming.”

“Other community activities our office is involved in are Safety City in Metamora, D.A.R.E. programs in Evergreen and Delta Schools, and School Resource Officers in Evergreen and Pettisville Schools.”

“We also participate in the Drug Take Back program which allows people to drop off expired and unused medication in order to get it out of their homes for proper disposal.

Medications can be dropped off in our lobby collection box 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.”

One big reason for the department’s success is due to the amount of training everyone gets. “Deputies are trained in CIT which stands for Crisis Intervention Training.

Deputies encounter people with mental issues almost every day and so it’s important that they know how to help in those types of situations. “ “We try very hard to get people the help that they need, but the lack of care facilities and placements for patients to get care is a continued

frustration. We try very hard to make sure people have information on the resources available to get help.”

“Recently our office had a man come into our lobby to make sure that our office knew he was so appreciative of the way deputies handled an incident with his mentally ill relative.

The patience that the deputy showed meant so much to him.”

This training is also provided to our area youth. “Our office also has an activity Explorer Program where we mentor teenagers who think they might want to be in law enforcement someday.

“The Explorers meet monthly with police-related topics and programs like how to fingerprint, firearms training, traffic control, etc. Last year they assisted our office at the Fulton County Fair where they were paired with a deputy on the fairgrounds.”

Multiple other aspects of training are explored at the sheriff’s office throughout the year as well. This year has seen some new items thrown into the mix.

“This past year the sheriff’s office went to a new computer-aided dispatch and records management system that required new training.”

“We also implemented electronic citations so deputies can issue a

citation and print the citation from their vehicle. There was a learning curve with the new systems this past year and we are continuing to work out any system issues.”

Additionally, a new Special Response Team has been created within the sheriff’s office. Training for this, and the department’s new MRAP, have been a priority for the team.

Even with all of that though, one of the most important things to remember is the fact that deputies are a part of the community too.

“Our deputies live in the communities that they serve. We are human just like everyone else. We have a heart and families just like you.

When people forget that communities suffer and begin to unravel.”

“Community support for law enforcement personnel is critical.

Whether it is a deputy or a police officer, community support means the world to them and the offices they work in.”

“If you look around, strong communities have a strong bond with their law enforcement officers. That is what I want for the communities we all live in.”

FAYETTE POLICE DEPARTMENT

Department's Community Oriented Efforts Bring Positive Impact To Fayette 255 Co. Rd. R • Napoleon, Ohio 43545 Phone: 419-599-5180 Fax: 419-592-5180 Email: customag@casindustries.com www.casindustries.com

By: Jacob Kessler THE VILLAGE REPORTER jacob@thevillagereporter.com The Fayette Police Department has been actively engaging in community policing initiatives, resulting in a positive impact on the local community.

Police Chief Richard Bingham has expressed a desire to increase community involvement and visibility of officers and has further expressed that the number of calls for service received has shown a notable increase in the past months.

Despite facing challenges with staffing, the department has also diligently sought to address the issue and has succeeded along the way.

To bolster law enforcement efforts, the department has augmented its staffing and implemented strategies to proactively combat criminal activities, leading to an upsurge in drug-related cases and incidents of impaired driving.

Unfortunately for everyone, the increasing retirement of officers across Ohio has presented an ongoing challenge, with recruiting new officers becoming increasingly difficult.

To bridge the gap, the department has been the recipient of generous monetary and equipment donations

from local businesses and citizens, which have been proven to be instrumental in meeting essential equipment needs and covering smaller expenses.

In line with their commitment to fostering community relations, the department has initiated a variety of community engagement activities.

Officers, going beyond their patrolling duties, have actively engaged with citizens at various community events, including Coffee and Donuts, DARE, Chili Cook-Off, Fall Fest, Xmas in the Village, an SRO in the schools, Bull Thistle Festivals, and Cones with Cops.

Additionally, being the sole department in Fulton County north of the Ohio Turnpike, the Fayette Police Department stands out by having a School Resource Officer in its schools and by maintaining a fulltime Community Resource Officer, further emphasizing the department's dedication to community-oriented policing.

Efforts to strengthen community relations extend to individualized acts of support and assistance to citizens.

Officers have gone above and beyond by providing financial and practical assistance, such as covering the cost of pet spaying or neutering for a citizen and responding effectively to

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emergency situations, saving lives in the process.

Looking to the future, the department is on track to reach full staffing levels and is poised to make further strides in serving the Fayette community.

With a team of experienced and dedicated officers, the department's focus remains on participating in community activities and securing grants to obtain necessary equipment for the village.

Moreover, plans are in motion to establish the department's first Canine Unit, aimed at addressing

drug-related issues in the village, with funding efforts centered on drawing support from donations and the local community.

The Fayette Police Department's commitment to community policing is evident in its proactive engagement, and its efforts have resonated positively within the community. As the department continues to navigate staffing challenges and advance its community-oriented strategies, it remains a vital cornerstone in fostering a safe and supportive environment for the residents of Fayette.

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A10 - "The Village Reporter” / Weekly Northwest Ohio (Williams & Fulton County News)

Wednesday, July 24th, 2024

WAUSEON POLICE DEPARTMENT

Wauseon Police Department Reflects On Recent Changes & Achievements By: Jacob Kessler THE VILLAGE REPORTER jacob@thevillagereporter.com The Wauseon Police Department has undergone significant changes and achieved numerous milestones in recent months. In 2023, the department handled 12,457 calls for service, including property patrols, house and business checks, traffic stops, calls for assistance, and criminal complaints.

From January 1st to March 31st, 2024, WPD has received 3,518 calls for service. These numbers show the department on track to at least meet, if not exceed, numbers from last year.

The numbers the department have observed also show a remarkable increase in both injury and non-injury crashes over the last 9-12 months.

Notably, the number of injury crashes doubled from 2022 to 2023, with the primary reasons attributed to distracted driving and a general hurry among drivers.

Like many other departments, the Wauseon Police Department has faced challenges in the recruiting of qualified applicants. Even so, the department emphasizes their commitment to staying at the forefront

of law enforcement technology and training.

The department has recently acquired two new patrol cars, upgraded Taser models, car and portable radios, a new dispatch/ records software, and has worked to upgrade its dash/body camera server.

Engagement with the community has also been a priority for the department. One example would be the continued success seen with the Christmas for Kids event in Fulton County, which witnessed increased participation and support from the community.

Moreover, the School Resource Officer (SRO) and other ALICE trainers have been actively involved in educating Wauseon school students and staff about responding to active threat situations.

In addition, the department has been proactive in raising awareness among seniors and nursing homes about identity protection and handling scam calls.

While the department has made significant strides, it still maintains an active and positive relationship with the community. Fortunately, the city has relatively low rates of serious

crimes.

Pair this with the fact that the department has recorded a high success rate in solving the crimes they do see, and ensuring favorable outcomes in court, and you are left with an all-around good situation for the city.

Despite the challenges and some changes made, the Wauseon Police Department continues to receive positive feedback and support from the community.

Whether it's through a call, note, or social media message,

these expressions of gratitude hold great significance and are shared throughout the department.

The department takes pride in all that it does and acknowledges the unique strengths and experiences of its personnel, which collectively contribute to a well-rounded approach in serving the Wauseon community and its visitors.

As the department navigates through changes and challenges, their commitment to community engagement and law enforcement excellence remains unwavering.

ARCHBOLD POLICE DEPARTMENT

Archbold Police Department Ready To Serve As Protectors & Educators By: Renea Kessler THE VILLAGE REPORTER renea@thevillagereporter.com

While the call volume for the Archbold Police Department has remained consistent, it sure has been keeping them busy. There hasn't been any noticeable change in the number or types of calls over the past year.

“I think that any changes will be driven by the needs of the community we serve. If our community changes, then we will need to change as well.”

“As our population has not changed, the call volume has remained constant. I also believe that technology will help us find new ways to serve our community” stated Chief Leo Wixom III. In the past year, the main challenge at the Archbold Police Department has been staffing. Like many other departments, they had three patrolmen resign from law enforcement and pursue different career paths.

The department has been fortunate to hire new staff, but it is becoming increasingly difficult to fill positions due to a shortage of people entering law enforcement. Currently, they have a full-time position available as well as auxiliary positions.

The department has encountered some positive situations such as being able to hire some really great people who continue to contribute to the department and are eager to serve the community.

In addition to hiring great people, they were also able to promote new leadership within the department. Tera Rogers was promoted to Assistant Chief and Brad Merillat was promoted to Sergeant.

The community outreach initiatives are ongoing, with new ideas and partnerships planned for this year. Safety City and Bike Rodeo are among the ongoing initiatives. The Archbold School District continues to support the School Resource Officer (SRO) and his programs, including D.A.R.E and other interactions with kids.

The department is also partnering with Archbold Parks and Recreation for some summer fun activities.

“I am looking to expand our community outreach by adding more programs and fostering increased interaction with the community,” said Wixom.

The Archbold Police Department is dedicated to continual improvement in serving the community.

Training is a top priority for their staff, as they are required by the state of Ohio to complete 24 hours of Continuing Professional Training (CPT).

Their patrolmen receive 80 to 120 hours or more of training each year, ranging from basic to advanced levels. Their goal is to be better today than they were yesterday, which enables them to better serve and

PHOTO PROVIDED / THE VILLAGE REPORTER

ARCHBOLD POLICE DEPARTMENT … (Left to Right) Back Row: Chief Leo Wixom III, Patrolman Jared Sanchez, Patrolman Evan Rufenacht, Patrolman Brice Meyer, Patrolman Levi Gerig, Patrolman Adam Berg, Asst. Chief Tera Rogers. Front Row: Part-time Clerk Cynthia Cassidy, Patrolman Eric Leininger, Patrolman Aaron Young, Patrolman Nathan Slough, Sgt. Bradley Merillat, Clerk Emily Hileman. Missing is, Patrolman Issac Brenneman and Part-time Patrolman Grant Schaffner. keep the community safe.

“I see our department in the community as protectors and educators. We need to protect the community we serve but also educate them on what we expect. Yes, we can give out tickets every day, but is that what is going to build up the community?”

“If we stop and educate you on what we expect and give a warning, everyone will learn from the experience and be better, including us. Don't get me wrong we do and will enforce the law as necessary, but sometimes it’s just as effective to be present and visible to enforce the law”, added Wixom.

The department deals with various stories and interactions on a daily basis. Not all calls to the police are related to a crime; sometimes people just need help, and the police are always there to assist.

This help may range from changing a flat tire to unlocking a vehicle when someone accidentally locks their keys inside.

Some situations are more serious, such as responding to a suicide hotline call and providing support or administering Narcan to save someone from an overdose. These are real scenarios that have

occurred at the Archbold Police Department over the past year.

The Archbold Police Department has a welldiverse staff, and the resources they have for a small department are significant. The community's support remains at the core of why they do what they do.

The department is grateful for the support of the School District in enabling them to have a School Resource Officer in the schools, as well as the assistance of their crossing guards.

To combat the narcotic and opioid epidemics, they have an Officer in the Multi-Area Narcotics Unit.

Additionally, they have a Drone Pilot for search and rescue, an active and engaging bike patrol within the community, and a role in the Special Response Team (SRT) for Fulton County for any emergent needs.

CONTINUED ON PAGE A14

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Wednesday, July 24th, 2024

"The Village Reporter” / Weekly Northwest Ohio (Williams & Fulton County News) - A11

EDGERTON POLICE DEPARTMENT

Edgerton Police Department Works To Further Community Engagement By: Jacob Kessler THE VILLAGE REPORTER jacob@thevillagereporter.com

The Edgerton Police Department is committed to enhancing community engagement and transparency, as indicated by their recent efforts and initiatives.

Despite facing staffing challenges and fluctuating service call numbers, the department remains dedicated to serving and protecting the local community.

According to Chief Ken Jacob, service call numbers for the current year closely resemble those of the previous year.

This pattern is attributed to seasonal fluctuations, with warmer weather contributing to increased outdoor activities and subsequently, a rise in service calls, particularly related to traffic incidents.

In response to broader staffing issues within law enforcement, the department has strategically concentrated on assembling a robust

team of officers to better serve the community.

Chief Jacob stressed the significance of fostering meaningful relationships and trust with the locals, emphasizing that their role extends beyond law enforcement.

To achieve this, officers actively participate in various community events, provide informative sessions to different demographic groups, and engage in activities aimed at building stronger connections from within the community.

In line with their commitment to evolving and meeting the community's needs, the department has secured approval for the implementation of body-worn cameras among its officers.

This move is intended to enhance transparency, facilitate training, and aid in future legal proceedings.

Additionally, the department has consistently exceeded the minimum training standards, demonstrating a strong commitment to maintaining high levels of professionalism and preparedness.

The Edgerton Police Department, which operates with a full-time staff of five and is supplemented by part-time and reserve officers, works tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of residents throughout the year.

Their collaborative approach, supported by local leadership and administrative teams, shows a strong commitment to providing the resources required for effective

policing.

Moving forward, the department remains dedicated to seeking additional resources and training opportunities to further enhance their capabilities.

It is this continuous collaboration between law enforcement and the supportive local community that distinguishes Edgerton as a great place to live and work.

SWANTON POLICE DEPARTMENT

Swanton Police Department Sees Positive Impact From Citizen Engagement By: Jacob Kessler THE VILLAGE REPORTER jacob@thevillagereporter.com The past year has seen a notable rise in numbers for the Swanton Police Department, as well as an increase in complaints and traffic crashes within the Village.

However, this rise in numbers is not limited to negative aspects, as more citizens are becoming actively involved in their communities, reporting an increase in crimes or suspicious activities.

Despite the challenges many law enforcement agencies face in staffing, the Swanton Police Department has managed to maintain a steady flow of applicants and retain existing officers.

This is attributed to an increase in wages, which has not only attracted more applicants but has also helped in maintaining the current workforce, resulting in the department being fully staffed.

Moreover, the Swanton Police Department has

been actively participating in various communityrelated events and Swanton school functions to engage with community members and provide valuable information to the public.

This proactive approach aims to create more opportunities for positive interactions between the department and the residents, ultimately building stronger relationships within the community.

The department has also been utilizing the high visibility of its officers as a tool to deter crimes and traffic offenses. By focusing on proactive policing and traffic enforcement, they aim to create a greater sense of safety within the village.

Additionally, the increased interaction opportunities with citizens have significantly improved communication and further contributed to the community's perception of safety.

Presently, the Swanton Police Department is fully staffed, boasting a good mix of experienced and new officers. This divide brings different perspectives on

various situations and enables the department to effectively address a wide range of issues.

Furthermore, the increased participation in community events is expected to nurture and strengthen the relationships between the police department and the citizens they serve.

WEST UNITY POLICE DEPARTMENT

West Unity P.D. Aiming To Build Positive Rapport With Community By: Renea Kessler THE VILLAGE REPORTER renea@thevillagereporter.com Over the past year, the West Unity Police Department has observed a rise in criminal investigation complaints and a slight decrease in traffic stops compared to the same period last year.

There has been a reduction in the number of full-time officers working on the road this year, in comparison to the previous year.

The department has built and maintained a strong core group of officers who continuously enhance

their job proficiency to better serve the community. They are committed to fostering a positive working relationship with Hilltop Schools, where they have placed a School Resource Officer to collaboratively address concerns with school staff, students, and parents. Similarly, they have established and sustained connections with the Library and Summer Recreation Program, aiming to build a positive rapport with the community and educate them about their duties while emphasizing the significance of safety.

Active involvement in community events has allowed the department to

build personal connections with the citizens of their village, contributing to a strong standing and enabling collaborative efforts to address various issues together.

As mentioned before the citizens are an important resource for the police department who often assist in giving information that solves crimes.

“Mayor Don Leu and the village council have been very instrumental with consistently supporting the police department and providing the necessary means needed to perform at a high and safe level”, said Chief J.R. Jones.

WEST UNITY POLICE CHIEF J.R. JONES

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A12 - "The Village Reporter” / Weekly Northwest Ohio (Williams & Fulton County News)

Wednesday, July 24th, 2024

BRYAN POLICE DEPARTMENT

Bryan P.D. Planning Ahead For The Future By: Jacob Kessler THE VILLAGE REPORTER jacob@thevillagereporter.com The Bryan Police Department has been making significant improvements to its operations and equipment over the past year.

In 2023, the department added an "E-Bike" to its bike patrol program, providing officers with motorized assistance to expand their range of patrol without getting exhausted when responding to calls.

This new addition has proven to be useful for events in the park and other community gatherings, allowing officers to interact more efficiently with the citizens of Bryan.

Last year, the department also implemented Body Worn Cameras (BWC) for all uniform patrol officers, which has resulted in reduced court time and citizen complaints.

The BWCs are not only beneficial for evidentiary purposes but also for training scenarios to ensure the safety

of both citizens and officers.

In August, the Bryan Police Department put into service a new 2023 Ford SUV specially outfitted for K9 Tyson and his handler, Patrolman Matt Sammons.

This upgrade replaced the previous 2015 Dodge Ram, offering better fuel efficiency and improved protection for both Patrolman Sammons and K9 Tyson while patrolling the City of Bryan.

The department's third annual awards ceremony held in December saw notable mentions for long-serving officers, including Sgt. Steven Doctor with 10 years of service, Sgt. Jeremy Viers and PTL. Tracy Williamson (retired) with 25 years of service.

Additionally, Patrolman Brian Robinson received a Lifesaving Award for his heroic efforts during a house fire in May 2023, and Officer of the Year was awarded to Patrolman Steven Graziani for his dedication and self-initiative at work. Employee of the Year, Dispatch/Record Clerk

Alex Smith, was recognized for her exceptional leadership and work performance.

Despite their advancements, the Bryan Police Department, like other departments nationwide, is facing challenges in recruiting new officers.

The department is actively working on recruiting individuals with a strong

commitment to serve and protect.

Currently, auxiliary officers are attending the Northwest State Community College Police Academy and are set to graduate in late May or early June. The department aims to have them in training immediately upon obtaining their OPOTA Certificate.

DELTA POLICE DEPARTMENT

Delta P.D. Reflects On Change & Success By: Jacob Kessler THE VILLAGE REPORTER jacob@thevillagereporter.com

The fiscal year 2023 marked a significant increase in Calls for Service, totaling 2043. The primary factor for this has been due to a change in the way documentation is processed and completed, not due to a change in crime statistics, according to Interim Chief Walker.

In the wake of turnover issues from within the department, the social climate and stiff competition from larger municipalities for qualified talent have presented noteworthy challenges.

Nonetheless, the Delta Police Department remains grateful for the unwavering support from the local community and is committed to sustaining and strengthening this essential bond.

The department has also taken part in several community events including the department's assistance in organizing and planning the Chicken

Festival, preparing for the Safety City for the incoming Graduating Class of 2037, and facilitating the Party in the Park.

Acknowledging the exceptional collaborative efforts of law enforcement, fire, and rescue agencies in Fulton County, the Delta Police Department takes pride in contributing to the village and county residents' welfare.

This unified approach, enriched by a deep-seated camaraderie, distinguishes Fulton County from its counterparts and amplifies its ability to meet community needs effectively.

This ability to meet the needs of the community is shown through the numerous thank yous provided to the department. Recognition of the positive impacts made by officers is highlighted through the abundance of thank you letters and emails received.

Emphasizing the importance of ongoing professional development, the department ensures that its officers undergo Continuing Professional Training annually.

With many officers possessing instructor certificates and extensive training beyond state requirements, the department remains committed to maintaining high standards of expertise.

Additionally, a newly introduced yet integral part of the department is its recent inclusion in the Ohio Collaborative, a platform that establishes statewide standards for law enforcement agencies. This move not only enhances accountability to the public but also positions the department for potential grant

opportunities.

In conclusion, while the Delta Police Department has encountered its share of hurdles, it continues to stand resilient, drawing strength from community support and the collaborative spirit that defines Fulton County's law enforcement efforts.

Moving forward, the department remains committed to upholding its standard of service and professionalism, positioning itself as an indispensable asset to the community it serves.

(CONTINUED) WILLIAMS COUNTY SHERIFF ...

We have initiated several community outreaches this past year, with the largest being the Park with the Police program. This event has become very large, with a growing attendance every year.

We have several outside agencies assist us with this, and it has become a landmark event in the County each June. It is a great opportunity for kids of all ages to interact with our officers throughout the county and have fun in the process!

We have also held several events at local libraries, underscoring scams, internet safety and awareness. I always try to assist our Department of Aging with its activities as well through the rainbow of wellness events and senior center outreaches.

We are very proactive in our services to the community and welcome any new ideas or events to promulgate these activities as we go along.

Our agency is responsible for all of the unincorporated areas of Williams County. This sets us apart because we encounter all of the “urban” type crimes, as well as the rural oriented types like thefts from rural homes and farms.

We also patrol countless miles of

county roads, and our constituency is both the village residents, and the rural folks. This diversity of enforcement and cultures we encounter makes us unique in the county.

As the sheriff, we also have the security of the county courthouse as our first mandate. Additionally, we have resources not common to smaller agencies, like detectives, child abuse and neglect officers, and narcotics specialists.

Our officers are going to train for “out of the box” capabilities, like farm machinery familiarization, map and compass orienteering, open scene crime scene processing (shootings, hunting incidents, etc.) and for natural disasters such as ice storms, blizzards, wind events, or tornadoes.

I am preparing an old truck we have in inventory to be used as a “storm truck”, to assist with clearing roads in the event of a severe storm and help emergency crews reach rural residents in a blizzard or snow emergency.

I believe the Williams County Sheriff’s Office is perceived very well in the county, and is gaining a reputation of viable, well trained, well-disciplined officers that deploy their talents in a professional and courteous manner.

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We strive to solve crimes that are reported, to deter criminal activity through aggressive traffic and drug law enforcement, and to maintain a very high level of convictions with our submitted cases through a process of report writing, evidentiary collection techniques, and timely, accurate case completion rates.

This will ensure a reasonable modicum of deterrence to future crime and maintain a standard of expected excellence in service.

I could list so many stories of actions my deputies take every day that is above and beyond expectations. It is very satisfying to routinely get calls from the public, not complaining, but commending my officers for everything from maximum efforts at cardiac episodes, to assisting motorists, to amazing response times to serious incidents, and especially, life saves.

My deputies are very highly motivated, very well trained, and eager to assist with anything that comes along! We recently had a deputy intervene with CPR on a 9-year-old child.

That action most likely saved the child’s life, and this was the second time that deputy had been able to

perform CPR successfully while on duty!

Many others have assisted with stranded motorists, house fires, lost children, etc. They are truly a force that the county can be proud of!

In closing, I am proud of the agency, proud of the deputies, and proud of their receptiveness to my administration. I strive to serve the public in the most effective way possible.

I plan on doing that by training up a force that holds words like duty, honor, courage, and integrity in the highest regard.

We do not tolerate unprofessional or ill-perceived actions; we do not tolerate half effort in our duties.

We expect honest, professional, accountable service every time the public calls, period.

This is the greatest county in Ohio, bar none! It’s our job to set the example, to provide a measure of safety and security to insure the prosperity of the citizens.

It’s a job we do and love and will continue to do with God’s blessings.

We hope the citizens of the county will join us in making this county the state’s shining example!

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Wednesday, July 24th, 2024

"The Village Reporter” / Weekly Northwest Ohio (Williams & Fulton County News) - A13

W illiams C ounty - F ulton C ounty A rea

Honoring Those Serving & Protecting N orthwest O hio P ublishing LLC (T he V illage R eporter )

(CONTINUED) MONTPELIER POLICE DEPARTMENT ... day, regardless of the situations they may face.

This is starts with serving the community, whether it be on a call or in their involvement in extra services, the MPD is there for the community.

They are not led to do what they do by politics or procedures, but rather by their desire to truly be a part of the community and to serve the community they are so proud to be a part of.

One of the ways they remain involved in the community is by being present at the school. Every year around Christmas time the officers walk the hallways of the school and interact with the kids, handing out candy canes, engaging in conversations with the kids asking them what presents they think they

might receive.

The officers even go into the classrooms and sing carols with the kids. It’s one of their favorite things to do any ways they remain involved. Though their presence and interactions with the kids may leave those kids with smiles, the officers always end up leaving with smiles bigger than what they entered with as the kids brighten their day just as much.

The MPD holds high standards for their officers. From having a team philosophy to high expectations for their department, the MPD is set apart in their work product as their officers are trained in more than just being police officers.

Though the demand of service requires a focus from the officers

which can be overwhelming, the additional and specialized trainings make all the difference in their service to the community.

The department has several officers who hold specializations, this keeps the MPD unique and gives them a more diverse ability to serve the community.

Currently these specializations range from Evidence Custodians, CVSA Operators, UAV Operator, Tactical Team Members, and this year they will be adding Cell Phone Analysis to the list.

The MPD wants officers who continue to learn and grow and those who can do a diversity of different things to help aid and serve the community of Montpelier in not only solving crime but also in serving the

community.

Chief McGee tells those officers to be hired, “You will earn every penny you make while serving here at MPD, but you will also be a true and know you wear the badge with honor.”

Every officer at the MPD knows this rings true, and each officer, whether full-time, part-time, or reserve, know they wear their badge with honor.

Regardless of the world today, no matter the national news or politics that surround the entire police industry, the MPD will not change their expectations or philosophy.

Each officer that serves on the MPD knows that they give their best for the community of Montpelier because they deserve nothing but the best. day, regardless of the situations they may face.

(CONTINUED) ARCHBOLD POLICE DEPARTMENT ...

The unwavering support from Mayor Brad Grime and the village council is invaluable. All of these components need to function effectively to enable the department to continue serving the community as they do.

Chief Wixom explained that he is proud to be a part of a team that serves their community saying, “I would like to give one last "Thank You" to the men and women who serve our community and do it so well. They are truly what

makes being part of this team so rewarding and I am proud to be part of it.”

“The team includes Asst. Chief Tera Rogers, Sergeant Brad Merillat, Eric Leininger, Nate Slough, Isaac

Brenneman, Brice Meyer, Jared Sanchez, Levi Gerig, Adam Burg, Evan Rufenacht, Aaron Young, Grant Schaffner, Emily Hileman, Cyndi Cassidy, Frank Smith, Darlene King, and Doug Ball.”

PUBLICATION NOTE

Not Seeing Your Local Department Honored?

By: Forrest R. Church, Publisher THE VILLAGE REPORTER publisher@thevillagereporter.com

The Village Reporter has a longstanding tradition of showcasing our local police departments through

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this annual feature. However, this year, our feature encountered several challenges as our writers reached out to local police departments starting in March 2024 to gather interview information, often experiencing delays or a lack of response.

While The Village Reporter is dedicated to providing equal coverage to all departments, it became evident that some departments either would not respond in a timely manner or declined to participate in the feature altogether. This presented a significant challenge for our writers as they endeavored to create comprehensive and balanced coverage.

We extend our gratitude to the police departments that have participated in the feature, and we remain committed to honoring those who protect and serve our small communities. Our goal is to foster communication and build relationships between our readers and our local law enforcement.

The annual feature serves as a valuable platform

for enhancing understanding and strengthening the bond between the community and law enforcement.

The Village Reporter is dedicated to upholding this tradition as a meaningful way to promote dialogue and appreciation for the vital work of our local police departments.

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A14 - "The Village Reporter” / Weekly Northwest Ohio (Williams & Fulton County News)

Wednesday, July 24th, 2024