MARION, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—The Marion Police Department (MPD) has announced its annual peer-selected award recipients for 2025, honoring an officer, a supervisor, and a civilian employee for their outstanding service to the agency and the community.
Amanda Adkins was selected as the Civilian Officer of the Year for 2025. A property officer with the MPD for nine years, Adkins is responsible for the meticulous handling and accountability of thousands of pieces of evidence and property each year, coordinating scientific testing and ensuring availability for court proceedings.
In addition to her critical police work, Adkins is a celebrated local artist, having contributed to the City of Marion by painting windows at City Hall, creating a mural for the Homicide Victim Memorial Garden, and painting six of the community’s decorative Cardinal statues.
Marion Police Chief Jay McDonald praised Adkins’ dedication. “Amanda is very deserving of this award. She does a difficult job in an exemplary manner each and every day. We are very lucky to have her on our team, and it is easy to see why Amanda was voted the Civilian Officer of the Year by her peers.”
Officer Michael Starrs, a four-year veteran, was selected by his peers as the 2025 Marion Police Department Officer of the Year. Starrs, a leader on the 3rd Shift, was nominated by his supervisors for his positive attitude, drive to help victims, and desire to make an #MPACT in the community. He also serves on the Combined Special Response Team (SRT).
“Any police department would be thrilled to have a team full of officers like Michael Starrs,” Chief McDonald said. “He works hard, he cares about others, and he is always smiling. Michael Starrs is very deserving of this prestigious award, and we are proud he is a member of the Marion Police Department.”
Finally, Lt. Jim Fitsko was voted the 2025 Supervisor of the Year. Lt. Fitsko is the department’s longest-serving member, with over 34 years of service. Currently assigned as the 3rd Shift supervisor, his career includes previous roles as a K9 handler and a detective.
Lt. Fitsko also holds leadership positions outside the MPD, serving as President of the Steve Young Memorial Lodge of the Fraternal Order of Police and as a Commissioner on the Ohio Peace Officer Training Commission.
“Lt. Fitsko is very deserving of this award, and I am proud to have him help lead our agency,” Chief McDonald stated. “Lt. Fitsko is a steady supervisor who is respected by his team and the agency. Lt. Fitsko is someone I can count on.”