Dayton, Ohio – The Dayton Police Department has been officially recognized as the “Agency of the Month” for May 2025 by the Ohio Association of Chiefs of Police Law Enforcement Foundation, in celebration of its exceptional efforts in community engagement and policing.
The award is part of the Foundation’s “Sharing Ohio’s Best” program, which began in 2019 through the Community Relations and Engagement Committee. The initiative aims to highlight and share effective, inspiring strategies that law enforcement agencies across the state use to build trust and connect with the communities they serve.
In announcing the recognition, the Committee issued a statement praising the department’s accomplishments:
“Congratulations to Dayton Police for being named the May, 2025 Agency of the Month! Dayton Police has worked hard to achieve positive results to join with their citizens’ needs. They have used creative programs to engage their community. Congratulations to Chief Afzal and his team for their work in spreading a positive community policing strategy!”
The Dayton Police Department stood out for its wide range of programs aimed at reaching citizens of all ages and backgrounds. A key initiative that drew praise is Youth Outdoor Adventures, a program designed for children and teens who have faced significant trauma, such as severe abuse, neglect, or the loss of a parent or sibling to violence or drug overdose. Many participants are currently living in foster care, group homes, or with extended family, often without opportunities to explore the outdoors or connect with peers facing similar struggles.
The department’s outreach doesn’t stop there. Programs like Operation Santa Sleigh, National Night Out, and Trunk or Treats are designed to bring officers and families together in fun and accessible ways. One annual tradition sees officers, retirees, and staff “adopt” families in need, ensuring children receive Christmas gifts and essential items they might otherwise go without.
Through its Community Engagement Unit, the Dayton Police Department continues to look for creative ways to bridge gaps, offer support, and build long-lasting trust with the citizens of Dayton. This recent recognition highlights the department’s consistent and heartfelt commitment to putting people first.
