Bethlehem Police Department, Bethlehem, PA

06/14/2026

🚨 Missing Person Alert 🚨
The Bethlehem Police Department is seeking the public's assistance in locating Daryl Tweed, who was reported missing by his mother this evening.
Daryl is autistic and left his residence in the 500 block of 12th Avenue on foot shortly after returning home from work. He was last seen at approximately 6:30 PM wearing all black clothing and typically uses a walker while walking.
If you see Daryl or have any information regarding his whereabouts, please contact Northampton County Non-Emergency Dispatch at 610-759-2200 immediately.

06/10/2026

🚸💛 Celebrating Our Crossing Guards 💛🚸

Today, the Bethlehem Police Department had the privilege of hosting our annual Crossing Guard Appreciation Breakfast to recognize the dedicated men and women who help keep our students safe every school day.

Rain or shine, our crossing guards are out at intersections across the city, ensuring children arrive at school and return home safely. Through their friendly smiles and familiar faces, many have become local celebrities in their neighborhoods.

Their commitment, reliability, and genuine care for our community do not go unnoticed, and we are truly grateful for everything they do.

As another school year comes to a close, we want to thank each of our crossing guards for their service and wish them a safe, relaxing, and well-deserved summer! ☀️

A special thank you to Chris and the incredible staff at Borderline Restaurant for graciously hosting today's breakfast and helping us celebrate these outstanding members of our team.

Please join us in showing our appreciation to the crossing guards who make a difference in the lives of Bethlehem's children each and every day. 💙

06/09/2026

🚨 Have you ever considered a career in law enforcement?

Today, our officers had the opportunity to speak with WFMZ's Jack Reinhard about what makes the Bethlehem Police Department such a rewarding place to serve. From competitive pay and outstanding benefits to specialized units and opportunities for advancement, there's never been a better time to join our team.

⏰ Applications close this Friday, June 12, at 3:00 p.m.
Don't miss your opportunity to become part of one of the premier law enforcement agencies in the Lehigh Valley.

Requirements include successfully passing a physical fitness test, a written examination and a polygraph test.

06/05/2026

🎉👮‍♂️ Congratulations and Happy Retirement, Sergeant John Casella #364 👮‍♂️🎉

Today, the Bethlehem Police Department proudly recognizes the outstanding career of Sergeant John Casella #364 as he begins his well-deserved retirement.

Sergeant Casella joined the Bethlehem Police Department on January 18, 2007. Throughout his career, he served in numerous assignments, most notably within narcotics investigations, where he spent many years as a Detective and DEA Task Force Officer investigating drug trafficking and other serious crimes.

In addition to his investigative work, Sergeant Casella has been a member of the Bethlehem Police Department's Emergency Response Team (ERT) for nearly his entire career. His commitment to the team culminated in his service as the department's most recent ERT Team Commander, where he helped lead and train officers for some of the department's most challenging and high-risk operations.

On March 15, 2021, Sergeant Casella was promoted to the rank of Sergeant. While he excelled in every assignment throughout his career, his greatest impact may have come as the Training Sergeant assigned to the Professional Standards Division. In that role, he was instrumental in enhancing officer training, improving professional development opportunities, and helping ensure that Bethlehem Police officers were equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to serve the community at the highest level.

On behalf of the men and women of the Bethlehem Police Department, we thank Sergeant Casella for his years of dedicated service, leadership, and commitment to excellence.

Please join us in wishing Sergeant Casella and his family a happy, healthy, and fulfilling retirement. Congratulations, Sergeant, and thank you for your service to the City of Bethlehem.

06/05/2026

🎉👮‍♂️ Congratulations and Happy Retirement, Captain Nicholas Lechman #366 👮‍♂️🎉

Today, the Bethlehem Police Department recognizes and celebrates the distinguished career of Captain Nicholas Lechman #366 as he begins his well-earned retirement.

Captain Lechman joined the Bethlehem Police Department on January 18, 2007. Throughout his career, he served in a variety of assignments, including many years within the Criminal Investigations Division, where he excelled as both a detective and supervisor.

On May 3, 2022, Captain Lechman was promoted to the rank of Captain. In that role, he provided leadership over the Support Services Division and the Professional Standards Division, helping guide the department through numerous challenges and initiatives while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and accountability.

While his accomplishments and leadership roles are noteworthy, Captain Lechman's greatest impact may be found in the officers he mentored throughout his career. His guidance, knowledge, and commitment to developing the next generation of law enforcement professionals have left a lasting impression that will continue to benefit the department long after his retirement.

On behalf of the men and women of the Bethlehem Police Department, we thank Captain Lechman for his years of dedicated service, leadership, and friendship.

Please join us in wishing Captain Lechman and his family a happy, healthy, and well-deserved retirement. We hope this next chapter is filled with family, friends, travel, and all the things that bring him joy.

Congratulations, Captain. Your service to Bethlehem will not be forgotten. 💙

06/05/2026

WANTED PERSON

The Bethlehem Police Department is seeking the public's assistance in locating Hector Olmo.

Olmo is currently wanted for violations of Pennsylvania's Megan's Law requirements, as well as additional parole violations.

Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts is asked to contact the Bethlehem Police Department Criminal Investigations Division at 610-865-7162.

As always, please do not approach or attempt to apprehend wanted persons yourself. If you see Olmo or know of his location, contact police immediately.

06/05/2026

📱🚗 Paul Miller’s Law Takes Effect Today in Pennsylvania 🚗📱

Beginning today, Paul Miller’s Law makes it illegal for drivers in Pennsylvania to use a handheld mobile device while operating a motor vehicle.

The law prohibits drivers from holding or supporting a phone or other mobile device with any part of their body while driving, including when stopped temporarily in traffic or at a red light.

Examples of prohibited conduct include:
❌ Texting or emailing
❌ Browsing social media or the internet
❌ Watching videos
❌ Holding a phone while talking on speakerphone
❌ Recording or streaming video

Drivers may still use hands-free technology, such as Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, or devices mounted in a fixed position within the vehicle.

The purpose of this law is simple: reduce distracted driving crashes and save lives. Every glance away from the road increases the risk of a serious or fatal crash.

The Bethlehem Police Department encourages all motorists to put their phones down, keep their attention on the road, and help make our streets safer for everyone.

06/04/2026

BPD Officer Rodriguez and LUPD Officer Stokes were out this morning on bicycle patrol, engaging with local residents and addressing quality-of-life concerns throughout the community. Opportunities like this highlight the strong partnership between the Bethlehem Police Department and Lehigh University Police Department as we work together year-round to support public safety and strengthen community connections.

06/03/2026

Captain Harry Strauss - EOW 6/3/1932

Today we remember Captain Harry Strauss, who was lost in the line of duty on June 3rd, 1932. Captain Strauss was struck and killed by a car while directing traffic on William Penn Highway during a barn fire. Captain Strauss served with the Bethlehem Police Department for 18 years. He was survived by his wife and four children.

05/28/2026

A special thank you goes out to CAT-Coalition for Appropriate Transportation for inviting our officers to participate in their numerous bike programs at local elementary schools this spring. Our officers were able to share safety tips with students at Thomas Jefferson, William Penn, Marvine and James Buchanan Elementary Schools.