Boardman Police Officers honored for finding missing, endangered man

Three Boardman police officers were awarded for finding an elderly man who went missing over the summer.

In August, the man left his home and didn't return.

He didn't have the medication he needed to survive, and it was so hot out, that dehydration was a real threat.

Sergeants Jon Martin, Joe Olinger, and Officer Breanna Jones were on duty that day.

They spent their shift scouring the township, finding him just before dark, and just in time. He was seriously ill but was able to recover and return safely to his family.

“On a daily basis I think everyone understands what police officers do as far as enforcement but there's things like that. extra efforts, dedication, teamwork- that is truly not really a law enforcement nature but has an impact on not only an individual but their family, bringing somebody home safely,” said Boardman Police Chief Todd Werth

Patrolman Greg Stepuk was honored as well, with a proclamation recognizing thirty years of service to the department.

The trustees also accepted the retirements of Lieutenant Steve Riwniak and Detective Tim Hughes after each spent decades serving the township.