LIMA, OH – Feb. 9, 2026 — In a renewed effort to deepen trust and build stronger relationships between law enforcement and residents, the City of Lima has officially relaunched its Community-Oriented Policing (COP) program. The pilot substation is now open at St. Charles, a longstanding community landmark at the intersection of Cable and Elm Streets on the city’s west end.
A Neighborhood-Based Approach to Safety
“St. Charles was chosen because it’s trusted, well-loved, and already has strong ties to the community,” Mayor Sharetta Smith said during her opening remarks. “This isn’t just about reacting when crisis strikes — it’s about maintaining relationships day in and day out.”
The relaunch marks a departure from the older model of assigning a single COP officer to a neighborhood. Under the new approach, a team of officers will be assigned to each of Lima’s three police precincts, with 24/7 COP coverage in the neighborhoods they serve.
“This lets us provide consistent support, even when an officer is off-duty,” Chief Curtis Hile said. “We’ve heard from the community — people want community policing back. This new team-based structure makes that possible despite staffing challenges.”
Substation Now Active in Precinct 3
The new COP substation at St. Charles will serve residents of Precinct 3. Officers assigned to the station include Kylie Archer, Ashley Lovett, Jake Mortimer, Riley Leonard, Michael Martinez, and Adrian Ramirez. The program is led by Sergeant Steven Torres.
While the substation won’t be staffed for walk-ins at all hours, residents will be able to request meetings via phone or QR code to connect directly with a COP officer.
“This is about setting clear expectations and creating real access,” said Sgt. Torres. “We’ll match your concern with the right officer and schedule a one-on-one conversation.”
Trusted Partnerships with Church and School Leaders
Father Kent and Principal Megan Scheid of St. Charles Catholic Church and School both emphasized how the program aligns with faith-based values and their commitment to education and safety.
“We believe love of neighbor starts with knowing your neighbor,” said Father Kent. “This new COP substation is a way to put that love into motion.”
Principal Scheid added that the partnership reinforces values of “respect, service, and accountability,” calling the collaboration a natural extension of their school’s mission.
City-Wide Vision
Although St. Charles is the first COP station under the new model, Mayor Smith and Chief Hile confirmed plans to expand the initiative to all three precincts citywide. Community organizations interested in hosting future substations are encouraged to reach out to the Lima Police Department.
“This is just the beginning,” Mayor Smith said. “We’re building something powerful — not just safer neighborhoods, but stronger communities.”