The Bellefontaine Police Department recognized years of service, specialized achievements, and outstanding dedication during its annual Awards Ceremony held earlier this week.
Several employees were honored for reaching career milestones through 2025.
Those recognized for 30 years of service included School Resource Officer Doug Walters and Dispatcher Angie Hall, while Lieutenant Jason Lapp was honored for 25 years.
Ten-year service awards were presented to Sergeant Andrew Purk, Officer Blaine Dixon, Detective Tanner Peterson, and Detective Jake Siekierka, and Officer Morgan Bango was recognized for five years of service.
Individual achievement awards were also presented during the ceremony.
Officer Kollin Stollar received Officer of the Year honors after being nominated by fellow officers.
Stollar has served with the department for two years and previously worked with the Kenton Police Department.
The Dispatcher of the Year Award went to Amanda Metz, an 11-year veteran of the agency.
Community and civilian contributions were highlighted as well.
Pete and Bobbi Yarchak received the Bellefontaine Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association (BCPAAA) Volunteer of the Year Award for their continued support of the department.
At the same time, John Steinhelfer of Aunalytics was presented with the Civilian Meritorious Service Award.
Additional recognition included the Special Response Team Operator Award (five years) presented to Sergeant Andrew Purk, the Field Training Officer Award awarded to Officer Devin Fowler, and the Military Service Ribbon presented to Officer Blake Parris, who served in the U.S. Marine Corps.
The ceremony also featured a special Hero Award in honor of K9 Boodik, who recently retired and later passed away following a brief battle with cancer.
Department officials thanked officers, staff, volunteers, and partners for their dedication and continued service to the Bellefontaine community.
