Staff
Zach Honaker
Zach Honaker

Zach Honaker

Detective Sergeant
zth127@gmail.com

Zach Honaker Bio

Zach Honaker is a dedicated law enforcement professional with over 17 years of service, the majority with the Fairlawn Police Department. His career reflects extensive experience in tactical operations, investigations, firearms instruction, and critical incident response. As a respected leader and trainer, Zach is committed to enhancing officer preparedness and performance through realistic, high-level training and operational excellence.

Professional Experience

Fairlawn Police Department – Fairlawn, Ohio
Sergeant, Detective Bureau

  • Provides supervision and oversight of investigative operations within the Detective Bureau.

  • Serves as the department’s Active Shooter Instructor (2013–Present).

  • Certified Firearms Instructor, responsible for officer weapons training and qualification.

  • Coordinates advanced tactical training and departmental readiness initiatives.

Metro SWAT (Regional Tactical Team)

  • Team Leader with over 10 years of operational experience.

  • Certified Explosive Breacher and Basic Sniper.

  • Provides leadership in tactical operations, high-risk warrant service, and crisis response.

Training and Certifications

  • Active Shooter Response Instructor – Since 2013

  • SORAT (Single Officer Response to Active Threats) Certified

  • 88 Tactical HTCQB (High Threat Close Quarters Battle) – Regular and Advanced Instructor

  • Firearms Instructor – Handgun and Rifle

  • Explosive Breacher – Certified

  • Basic Sniper School – Completed

Areas of Expertise

  • Tactical Leadership and Operations

  • Firearms Instruction and Qualification

  • Active Shooter Response and Solo Officer Tactics

  • Explosive Breaching and Entry Techniques

  • Criminal Investigations and Case Management

  • Team Development and Tactical Training

Leadership and Instructional Contributions

As the department’s lead active shooter instructor and SWAT team leader, Zach has developed and implemented comprehensive training programs focused on officer safety, adaptability, and tactical efficiency. His instruction emphasizes realistic, high-stress scenarios that prepare officers to perform effectively under pressure while ensuring community and officer safety.

Legacy

Throughout his career, Sergeant Zach Honaker has demonstrated exceptional dedication to public safety, tactical excellence, and officer development. His leadership within the Fairlawn Police Department and Metro SWAT continues to strengthen operational readiness and promote professionalism across the law enforcement community.