Steven Kaethow is a highly experienced law enforcement and military professional with over three decades of service to his country and community. His distinguished career spans active-duty service in the United States Marine Corps and a long tenure with the City of Columbus Division of Police, where he has specialized in tactical operations, investigations, and specialized unit leadership. He currently serves with the Columbus Division of Police as a full-time SWAT Operator and Sniper on Green Team.

Professional Experience

City of Columbus, Division of Police (1996–Present)
SWAT Operator / Lead Sniper Instructor (2021–Present)
Major Crimes Detective – Felony Assault Unit (2017–2021)
Underwater Search and Recovery Unit (Dive Team Member, 2001–2022; Divemaster of Team, 2014–2022)
Patrol Officer (1996–2017)

Sharon Township Police Department, Worthington, Ohio (1995–1996)
Patrol Officer

United States Marine Corps (1987–1993)
Infantry / Mortarman (1987)
Marine Corps Security Force Company – Bangor, Washington (1988–1990)
Designated Marksman / Sniper – Special Reaction Team
Marine Security Guard / Embassy Marine (1990–1993)

• Embassy La Paz, Bolivia

• Consulate Shenyang, China

• Consulate Hamburg, Germany

• TDY: Embassy Panama City, Panama; Embassy Beijing, China; Embassy Bangkok, Thailand

Areas of Expertise

• Tactical Operations and Sniper Instruction

• SWAT Leadership and Team Coordination

• Underwater Search and Recovery Operations

• Firearms and Precision Marksmanship

• Major Crimes Investigation

Leadership and Instructional Contributions

As the Lead Sniper Instructor for the Columbus Division of Police SWAT Unit, Steven has been instrumental in advancing the department’s tactical capabilities and marksmanship standards. His extensive operational experience and commitment to precision have elevated the performance and readiness of specialized units under his leadership.

Legacy

Throughout his distinguished military and law enforcement career, Steven Kaethow has exemplified professionalism, discipline, and tactical excellence. His dedication to training, mentorship, and mission success continues to have a lasting impact on both the Marine Corps and the law enforcement community he proudly serves.