MANSFIELD — Blake Bammann became the third generation of Mansfield police officers from his family when he joined the force in 2021.
The 2018 Lexington High School graduate proved he must have paid attention growing up, earning the department’s “Officer of the Year” award for 2024.
Bammann’s award came during a recent year-end ceremony honoring department members. (See below for other awardees.)
His dad is current Mansfield police Chief Jason Bammann and his grandfather is retired Sgt. Mike Bammann, who is still president of Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 32 after his own 35-year career.
The youngest Bammann, a member of the Community Services Bureau and night watch, “demonstrated a relentless commitment to reducing crime and improving the safety of the city,” department officials said.
For the majority of 2024, Bammann was assigned to afternoon watch, “where he consistently produced a high volume of quality work.”
Bammann made 64 felony arrests, 120 misdemeanor arrests, completed 259 general offense reports, wrote 171 criminal summonses and conducted 95 field interviews.
Bammann, who earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from the University of Cincinnati after graduation from Lexington, has also been active with the community action team, a member of ASORT and served as a field training officer
“His diverse skill set and willingness to take on multiple responsibilities demonstrate his dedication to both his profession and his community,” the department stated. “In his short time on night watch, officer Bammann has brought a fresh energy and enthusiasm to the shift, greatly enhancing the effectiveness of the team.
“His passion for policing, especially during the overnight hours, has had a contagious effect on his colleagues.”
Other annual awards presented went to:
Detective of the Year: Terry Butler
According to the department, Butler “consistently goes above and beyond in his efforts to assist these young officers in building their knowledge and skills.
“Detective Butler is always willing to guide officers in tasks such as creating and proctoring photo line-ups, offering his expertise and ensuring that the officers are
actively involved in the process,” the department said.
Butler’s dedication to teaching extends
beyond administrative tasks.
“He encourages officers to seek his guidance whenever they encounter challenges, fostering an environment where
learning is continuous,” the MPD said.
“Detective Butler plays a vital role in assisting with the drafting, serving, and completion of search warrants. He makes himself available to walk young officers through the
process, offering hands-on experience and invaluable insights.
“Despite the demands of his detective duties, Detective Butler remains deeply involved with patrol operations. He frequently responds to calls alongside patrol officers, using those opportunities to train and educate them in real-time, offering advice, and demonstrating best practices,” the department said.
Butler also works on the department’s motorcycle unit as a motorcycle instructor.
“Detective Butler is not only a model of professionalism, but his hard work and dedication reflect his commitment to the citizens of Mansfield. He serves as a beacon of guidance for our newer officers, and his positive impact on the department is immeasurable,” the department said.
Supervisor of the Year: Sgt. Travis Stantz
After being assigned to second-shift patrol in 2023, MPD leaders said, “Stantz not only embraced this challenge but also turned it into an opportunity to elevate the entire shift and positively impact the development of young patrol officers.”
The department said Stantz’s approach to leadership is a testament to his commitment to his team and the community.
“Rather than simply providing verbal guidance, he exemplifies a hands-on
leadership style.
“He eagerly stepped into the field, assisting young officers during dispatched calls and proactively generating activity. His
presence on the streets not only provided his squad with valuable guidance but also set an example of dedication and professionalism in
action.
“His willingness to leave the office and engage directly with his officers in real-world situations speaks volumes about his work ethic and commitment to the success of those under his command,” the MPD said.
Stantz actively shares his extensive knowledge of handling diverse calls and proactive policing techniques on junior officers.
“His mentorship has had a direct, positive impact on the growth and confidence of young officers, and his contributions go a long way in building a stronger, more effective patrol unit,” the department said.
In addition to his patrol duties, Stantz was selected in July to fill the challenging role of Special Investigative Section sergeant. He serves on the SWAT team, the bike unit, and as a recruitment officer.
“These roles demonstrate his versatility and dedication to the department, further solidifying his reputation as a well-rounded and committed leader. His contributions are invaluable to the department and the community we serve,” the MPD leaders said.
Civilians of the Year: The City of Mansfield, Municipal Building Maintenance Team — Gary Utt, Tim Hieatt, Doug Bottorf and Mario Burtin
The MPD leadership said this team plays an “essential, yet often unsung role in ensuring the success of our law enforcement agency, providing unwavering
dedication to the maintenance and functionality of our facilities. Their hard work and commitment directly impact our ability to execute our mission of protecting and serving the community.”
According to the award, the city maintenance team ensures MPD facilities remain safe, operational, and conducive to daily operations.
“Whether handling critical repairs, overseeing preventative maintenance, or addressing urgent issues with minimal disruption, their efforts ensure that our agency can focus on its core mission. Despite their behind-the-scenes work often going unnoticed, the team’s contributions are pivotal to the success of our operations,” the department said.
The MPD cited several specific projects completed by the team:
— Constructing a gazebo at the outdoor
range: A creative and resourceful project
that enhanced the functionality and aesthetic appeal of our outdoor facilities.
— Assisting with personnel moves: During
a year of numerous personnel relocations,
this team coordinated with the
administration to ensure smooth transitions, minimizing disruption and helping to maintain operational efficiency.
— Repainting the training facility: When
the walls of the training facility were damaged, the team not only repaired and
repainted the space but also revitalized it to provide a fresh and welcoming environment for staff.
— Locker rooms, SWAT armory, and weight rooms: “Among their most notable work, this team completely transformed these critical areas, creating spaces that are both functional and comfortable for our team members.”
“Throughout a year of significant changes and upgrades to our facilities, the team collaborated seamlessly with agency leadership, outside vendors, and other departments, ensuring that all projects were completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards.
“Their proactive approach, attention to detail, and exceptional problem-solving skills have been a constant source of support for our agency.
“What truly sets this team apart is not just their technical expertise but their positive attitudes and dedication to making our agency a better place to work. Their enthusiasm is contagious, and it has directly contributed to improved morale across the division,” the department said.