HUBBARD TOWNSHIP — As law enforcement across Ohio moves toward its next campaign, the township’s police chief recognized one of their own for his hard work and its importance in keeping the community safe.

Police Chief Brenda Freeman reported at Tuesday’s meeting that the department had just completed its distracted driving campaign, made possible through the 2026 Summer Holiday Enforcement Program Grant.

The grant allows agencies to receive up to 350 hours of overtime, with enforcement mandatory during periods such as Distracted Driving Month or Drive Sober and Get Pulled Over, for a total of four events.

Grant eligibility is based on traffic fatalities, and because a dangerous portion of state Route 80 is part of the township, it ups the number counted towards the area, according to Trustee Jason Tedrow.

“These enforcement campaigns are not simply about writing citations — they are about changing behavior, preventing crashes and ultimately saving lives,” Freeman said.

Freeman said Officer George Stamos, who joined the department as a part-time officer in September 2024 and became full-time in November of that year, stood out throughout the campaign through “exceptional effort and unwavering commitment.”

“Officer Stamos consistently went above and beyond by volunteering for and working numerous extra shifts in support of this initiative,” Freeman said. “Through hard work and professionalism, Officer Stamos surpassed all other participating officers in traffic stops, citations issued and verbal warnings — provided to educate drivers on safe driving habits.”

Freeman said Stamos’s work directly impacts the community’s safety, as every distracted driver stopped, impaired driver deterred and seatbelt reminder could prevent tragedy on the roadways.

“Officer Stamos reflects a genuine dedication to protecting the residents and visitors of our community,” Freeman said. “These efforts do not go unnoticed. They represent the type of proactive policing and community commitment that strengthens public trust and keeps our roads safer for everyone.”