Elyria Police Department

09/15/2026

🏅 2026 LETS VALOR AWARD

Please join us in congratulating Patrol Officer Ali F. Sabeiha on receiving the 2026 Law Enforcement Training Symposium (LETS) Valor Award for his heroic actions on January 21, 2026.

On that afternoon, Officer Sabeiha pursued an armed suspect who had robbed a Brinks employee in Elyria. The pursuit continued through multiple jurisdictions and into North Olmsted, where the suspect crashed his vehicle, exited with a firearm, and fled into a nearby residential neighborhood.

The suspect then forced his way into a home where a woman was entering her residence with four young children.

Officer Sabeiha did not hesitate.

He forced entry into the residence, confronted the armed suspect, and took immediate action to protect the innocent people inside. His courage, composure, sound judgment and tactical proficiency under extreme pressure ultimately brought the threat to an end.

The woman and all four children were rescued unharmed.

“I'm not sure he knew what was waiting for him on the other side of that doorway, but that's what courage in law enforcement is all about. He knew there were innocent people inside that apartment who needed help, and he ran toward danger instead of running away from it.” — Chief James P. Welsh

Chief Welsh described Officer Sabeiha's actions as representing “the finest aspects of law enforcement, bravery and courage.”

“I believe he’s a hero.”

Today, we are proud to recognize Officer Sabeiha not only for receiving this prestigious award, but for the courage and commitment to protecting human life that earned it.

Congratulations, Officer Sabeiha. Your actions made a difference when it mattered most. Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy Ohio Attorney General Andy Wilson

09/15/2026

Are you looking for a rewarding career in public safety?

Join us on Thursday, September 17, 2026, from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM at Lorain County Community College in the iLoft Hallway (1st Floor) for the Safety Forces Career Fair.

Meet employers, explore internships, and discover full-time and part-time career opportunities.

Questions? Email [email protected]. Preregistration is recommended but not required.

09/11/2026

🇺🇸 Thank You, Flight of the Flags 🇺🇸

In a tribute to 9/11, Flightoftheflags carried the Elyria Police Department flag, honoring the memory and service of Sgt. James A. Kerstetter, Ptlm. Bradley T. Scott, and Ptlm. Howard B. Taft.

Today, we remember and honor those who lost their lives on September 11th, 2001, those who served in its aftermath, and the generations who answered the call to serve.

Thank you to the Flight of the Flags for carrying our flag today and helping keep the legacy of our first responders and veterans alive. Your tribute is a powerful reminder of the courage, sacrifice, and dedication that define those who serve our communities and our country.

Never forgotten. Forever honored. 🇺🇸

09/10/2026

🎀 Only a few days left until the store closes!
Order by: September 13th at midnight (shirts will be delivered the beginning of October).
Order here: https://stores.inksoft.com/elyria_pd_bc_public/shop/home

💗 The Elyria Police Department is going PINK with a purpose this October!

You asked, we listened! This year, we’re opening our breast cancer awareness shirt sales to our community!

All proceeds will be donated to the Breast Cancer Fund of Ohio, helping provide emergency assistance to individuals and families impacted by breast cancer, including support for housing, food, medical co-pays and other essential needs.

🎀 Order by: September 13th at midnight (shirts will be delivered the beginning of October).

Order here: https://stores.inksoft.com/elyria_pd_bc_public/shop/home

Join us in wearing pink, showing your support, and standing with those impacted by breast cancer. 💗

09/09/2026

🇺🇸 FLIGHT OF THE FLAGS

Flight of the Flags is collecting flags to be flown on September 11 in honor and remembrance of fallen military members and first responders.

If you have a flag you would like included in this tribute, please bring it to:

📍 Elyria City Hall – Main Lobby
📅 Thursday, September 10
🕛 Noon–4 p.m.

The collected flags will be flown as part of the Flight of the Flags September 11 tribute. Afterward, you can pick up your flag at Elyria City Hall:

📅 Monday, September 14
🕛 Noon–4 p.m.
📍 Main Lobby

Help us honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice and ensure their service and memory are never forgotten. 🇺🇸 Visit FlightoftheFlags.org for more information

09/04/2026

The message is simple: Get home safely.
This Labor Day weekend, make sure you plan ahead before drinking.
- Agree on a designated driver in your group who will remain 100% sober.
- Use rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft.
- Step up and be the designated driver to ensure a safe ride home for your friends and family.

09/01/2026

🎉 Please join us in congratulating Shelbie Leeper on her promotion to the rank of Sergeant!

Sergeant Leeper joined the Elyria Police Department in January 2020. Since then, she has demonstrated her dedication, professionalism, and commitment to the department and the community while serving in Patrol, as a Training Officer, and as a Drone Pilot.

Congratulations, Sgt. Leeper! We wish you continued success in your new role! 👏

08/31/2026

💜 Today is Ohio .

The impact of the overdose epidemic reaches far beyond statistics. It affects our friends, family members, neighbors, and loved ones right here in Elyria.

Today, we remember those we have lost, support those who are struggling, and recognize the importance of coming together as a community. Awareness, education, and support can save lives.

Learn more about resources, prevention, and ways you can make a difference in our community at OHagainstOD.ohio.gov.

Today is Ohio . A day to reflect on the national overdose epidemic that has a personal impact on Ohio communities. Learn what you can do in your community to fight this epidemic at OHagainstOD.ohio.gov

08/28/2026

♻️ ELYRIA, LET’S PULL TOGETHER! ♻️

The Elyria Police Department is joining the Lorain County Solid Waste Management District County-wide Pull-Tab Challenge to support Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northeast Ohio!

We’re challenging the Elyria community to help us collect as many aluminum pull tabs as possible by December 30, 2026.

It’s easy to participate:
🔹 Save the pull tabs from your aluminum beverage cans
🔹 Place them in a clean container
🔹 Drop them off at the Elyria Police Department

Every pull tab makes a difference! The aluminum is recycled, and the proceeds help provide support, comfort, and resources to families with seriously ill or injured children.

08/26/2026

🎒 Hey Elyria!
As students head back to school, we’re asking everyone to slow down, stay alert and watch for children walking, biking and crossing the street.

🚌 When you see a school bus, follow the rules of the road. Stop when required, give buses plenty of room and never pass a stopped bus when the red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended.

🚗 Slow down in school zones.
📵 Put the phone down and pay attention.
👀 Watch carefully for children and pedestrians.
🛑 Follow all traffic signs, signals and school bus laws.

A few extra seconds of caution can help keep our kids safe. Let's start the school year off right, Elyria!