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Crime Stopper Breakfast - 2025

Ken Minard and Ed Sachs attended the Columbus Crime-Stoppers Breakfast at the Boat House in Columbus on October 29, 2025. There were about 140 people in attendance, mostly police officers, including State Troopers and Sheriffs, with Columbus Police Officers (CPD) the vast majority. Ken and Ed sat with 6 CPD personnel: 2 Detectives and 4 Administrators. As happened with our ASIS Officer Appreciation Lunch: the Columbus Pipes and Drums played, the colors were presented by the CPD Color Guard, there was the pledge of Allegiance and an invocation.

Awards were presented by celebrities from TV channels 4, 6 and 10; to officers and businesses supporting the police. Remarks were made by Napoleon Bell – Crime Stoppers President and by CPD Chief Elaine Bryant. The program concluded with a benediction by Westerville PD Chaplain Jim Meacham (who spoke at our ASIS Officer Appreciation lunch a few years ago).

The keynote speaker was Bill Swank. Bill is the first-ever recipient of the Ambassador Impact Award from the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF). With over 32 years in law enforcement, Bill has served in roles ranging from narcotics officer to Detective Sergeant, and later with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

In 2016, Bill founded Light Ohio Blue, a statewide initiative honoring fallen officers, supporting their families, and showing appreciation for active law enforcement personnel. As an NLEOMF Ambassador and Steering Committee member, Bill has strengthened national outreach and even personally funded the program’s first Ambassador Challenge Coins. Much of Bill’s presentation was about Light Ohio Blue and Crime-stoppers.

Bill’s career reflects unwavering dedication, service, and advocacy for the law enforcement community, making him an inspiring voice for public safety and community support.