The Bellefontaine Police Department recently hosted its annual awards ceremony to honor staff members for their dedicated service during the past year.
Amanda Metz was recognized as the 2024 Dispatcher of the Year, and Aaron Long was selected as the 2024 Officer of the Year.
Commander Joe Messer presented the American Legion Award to Tanner Peterson, Aaron Long and Greg VanBuskirk.
Bobbi Yarchak was honored with the Bellefontaine Citizens Police Academy Alumni Volunteer Service Award.
Special Assignment Recognition was given to: Military Veterans — Brad Staley, Isaac Chiles, Jerrod Hostetler, Andrew Purk, Cody Reed, Army; and Robbie Hamilton, U.S. Marine Corps; Communications Training Officer Recognition (Having Trained Two Dispatchers) — Kimberly Tackett, Nicki Chambers, Heather Simpson, Amanda Metz; and Field Training Officers Recognition (Having Trained Four Officers) — Jason Lapp, Seth Chambers, Isaac Chiles, Aaron Long, Greg VanBuskirk.
Years of service recognition also included: Five Years — Aaron Long, Devin Fowler, Buddy Kenner, Heather Simpson; 10 years — Jerrod Hostetler, Tyler Simpson, Blaine Dixon, Amanda Metz; 20 Years — Andy Kennedy, Peter Hager.
Special Response Team Recognition for active members/five years service present or past included: Chris Marlow, Scott Marlow, Andy Kennedy, Seth Chambers and Jerrod Hostetler.