Norwalk police earn statewide recognition

NORWALK — Norwalk's police department was recognized at the state level for its community policing efforts. The agency earned April's Agency of the Month designation from the Ohio Association of Chiefs of Police and the Law Enforcement Foundation. The award is part of the Sharing Ohio's Best program, which highlights departments across the state for programs that connect officers with the communities they serve. "We are proud to recognize the Norwalk Police Department as the April 2026 Agency of the Month! Their vision for positive policing is evident through diverse outreach programs that deliver essential safety messages to every generation," the foundation said in a news release. Police Chief Scott Dahlgren said the recognition reflects work that often happens outside of traditional calls for service. "This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication from all of the men and women of the Norwalk Police Department," Dahlgren said. "They all care deeply about the community and are trying to build relationships." Norwalk Mayor Dave Light said the recognition mirrors what residents see regularly. "I'm very proud of them," Light said. "Chief Dahlgren and the officers have done a great job involving the department in all aspects of our community. They're very well trained and go above and beyond with transparency." That approach shows up in a range of settings, from classrooms to community events. According to the award letter, officers spend time in local schools through D.A.R.E. and other programs, working with students on safety and helping to develop better decision-making. For younger children, the department runs Safety Town, a multi-day program that introduces kindergarten-aged students to basic safety concepts, from traffic awareness to emergency response. Outside the classroom, the attention of the department shifts to more informal contact. Events such as Coffee With a Cop give residents a chance to talk with officers in a relaxed setting and holiday efforts like Shop With a Cop and Halloween outreach bring officers into neighborhoods in a different role than traditional law enforcement. Dahlgren said those efforts are not new, but part of a long-standing commitment. "The department partakes in numerous events throughout the year and some of those are highlighted in the press release," he said. "Many of these events the department has done for a number of years, so it is great to see the recognition at the state level." The award also recognized the department's cooperation with local groups and businesses. The foundation specifically mentioned programs such as a bike helmet initiative that rewards children for safe riding and the department's participation in Drug Take Back events, which provide a safe way for residents to dispose of unused medications. Dahlgren mentioned officers attend and remain visible at community events and in schools throughout the year, taking part in reading programs, student recognition efforts and charitable activities. The foundation noted specifically that the department's "reach spans multiple age groups and settings, with consistent contact between officers and residents across the community." For Dahlgren, the recognition is less about a single program and more about a steady approach. "We are truly honored to be recognized as the agency of the month and will seek to continue building our community relationships," he said.