It’s often said that first responders are the ones who run to an emergency, not away.
That’s somewhat of the scenario as to why Perrysburg Police Officer Stephen Loar knew he was meant to be in law enforcement.
A few years ago, he and his wife, Abby, were driving in Bowling Green and the vehicle in front of them crashed because the driver had suffered an apparent medical issue, Officer Loar said.
He and Abby, who is a nurse, immediately went to assist the man. Then, Officer Loar looked up and saw two Bowling Green police officers rounding the corner to help.
“In that moment, it was [I’m] helping this guy out, and the first people on scene were the police. And it was like, all right, this is definitely what I want to do,” he said. “That’s kind of the backbone for my push into law enforcement.
“I like helping people,” Officer Loar added.
His dedication to the profession earned him Officer of the Year for the Perrysburg Police Division. At Tuesday’s council meeting, Patrick Jones, director of public safety, praised Officer Loar for his composure and professionalism.
“He has a genuine enthusiasm for the job. In life, in general, Stephen’s one of those guys that’s always smiling, happy,” Chief Jones said. “Stephen gives us a lot of volume work, but it’s also high-quality work.”
Officer Loar said he’s always on the lookout for speeders and other violations.
“The last year, I believe, I had the most traffic stops and the most activity with the department. I’m a very proactive officer,” he said.
When Officer Loar isn’t in his cruiser or on bike patrol, he’s out in the community.
He recently was certified as a crime specialist, a drone pilot, and a defensive tactics instructor.
“This past year, we put out a pamphlet that I put together listing different crime-prevention strategies and tips,” Officer Loar said.
He hopes to finish out a long police career with the city.
“I actually want to retire from Perrysburg,” Officer Loar said. “I’d like to get promotions and work the detective bureau.
“The community’s great. We have a lot of support here,” he said.
He grew up around strong law enforcement examples. His brother, Isaiah, has been with the Wood County Sheriff’s Office for 16 years. Father-in-law Mark Hanson was a Bowling Green police officer.
“I’ve known my father-in-law since I was about 5,” Officer Loar said. “Having him as a role model growing up, and then having my brother go into law enforcement — just a lot of good role models.”
The Loars have four children: Cassidy, 10, Oliver, 8, Levi, 6, and Owen, 4. Mrs. Loar works part time at Wood County Hospital, and Officer Loar has the afternoon shift, so they make parenting work, along with help from family.
“For me, four is small,” he said of his family. “I’m number nine of 12; my parents had 12 kids. So four is pretty tame. And she [Abby] is the second -oldest of six. So we both came from comparatively big families.”
The Eastwood High School graduate grew up in the Pemberville area. He has his associate’s degree in criminal justice from Owens Community College.
Officer Loar, who is 30, has been with the Perrysburg department for almost four years. Before then, he was a part-time officer for the villages of Holland and Whitehouse.
Amanda Stidham was recognized as civilian employee of the year.
“They do represent the Perrysburg Police Division, and are many times the first call when someone needs help,” Chief Jones said of the civilian workers. “That’s why I feel it’s important we honor both the civilian and sworn officers each year.”
Ms. Stidham started with the city in 2021 as a communications officer. She’s known for taking initiative, Chief Jones said.
“She willingly gives input for policy and procedure changes, and this input is well thought-out and well reasoned,” he said. “She’s always eager to learn more and, at the same time, willing to pass on what she knows to new employees.”
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