Reno Police Department

🏆 John C. Bohach 1818 Award Ceremony! 🏆

Yesterday, the Reno Police Department attended Bohach Elementary School to honor exemplary students for their hard work and achievements throughout the school year.

One student received the 1818 Award, recognizing their efforts in helping make their school and community a safer place.

Another student received the 526 Officer Backup Award, which honors a student who played a crucial role in supporting school staff throughout the year.

Finally, a student was presented with the Cornerstone Award, recognizing outstanding leadership and positive influence in the classroom.

Congratulations to all of the award winners and nominees! Your dedication, leadership, and commitment to your school community are truly inspiring.!

During a recent bear response in Reno, wildlife staff and law enforcement worked together to safely resolve a situation involving a young black bear that had climbed into a tree.

A special thank you to Reno Police Department Officer and drone pilot Jason Pruyn, whose aerial footage provided responders with a unique perspective during the incident and helped support the coordinated response effort.

Every wildlife situation is different, and response methods are carefully evaluated based on public safety, animal welfare, location, and the bear's behavior.

If you encounter a bear, give it space and avoid approaching it. While hazing can be an effective tool in some situations, it should only be done from a safe distance and in appropriate circumstances. Please do not use drones to approach or pursue wildlife.

Neither the bear nor any people were injured during the brief incident.

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The City of Reno and Reno Police Department are mourning the loss of Detective Thomas Lopey, a dedicated public servant whose career was defined by service to his country, his community, and his fellow officers. Detective Lopey served the residents of Reno with distinction for nearly 13 years, leaving a lasting impact on the department and the community he swore to protect.

“Tom was the kind of police officer every department hopes to have, and every officer is fortunate to work beside,” said Reno Police Chief Corey Solferino. “I had the privilege of knowing and working with him throughout much of my career. He was a dedicated detective, a respected leader and, most importantly, a genuinely good man who cared deeply about his family, his fellow officers and the community he served. His loss is felt throughout our department, and his legacy will continue through the countless lives he impacted.”

Detective Lopey proudly served his country in the United States Army during Operation Iraqi Freedom before continuing his service in the National Guard as a combat engineer. He later dedicated his life to law enforcement, serving first with the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office before joining the Reno Police Department, where he faithfully served the Reno community for nearly 13 years.

During his career with the Reno Police Department, Detective Lopey served as a Patrol Training Officer, Regional Gang Unit detective, SWAT Team member, and President of the Reno Police Protective Association. He was respected throughout the department for his leadership, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to serving others.

Detective Lopey is survived by his wife and daughter.
The City of Reno and Reno Police Department ask the community to keep Detective Lopey’s family, friends, and colleagues in their thoughts during this difficult time.

This Memorial Day, we honor and remember the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our nation.

Their sacrifice secured the freedoms we enjoy every day, and we are forever grateful to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

As we gather with family and friends this today, please take a moment to reflect on the true meaning of Memorial Day.

From all of us at the Reno Police Department, thank you to our fallen heroes and their families. We will never forget. 🇺🇸