Coleman returns to Lovell Police Department, bringing experience and community focus

The Lovell Police Department has welcomed back Steve Coleman, an officer with deep ties to the community and a wealth of experience in law enforcement.

Having lived in Lovell for the past five years, Coleman has rejoined the department as a full-time officer, bringing a focus on positive community relations and a long history of service in the Big Horn Basin.

Chief Roger Haney praised Coleman’s extensive background, highlighting his experience as a school resource officer (SRO) and his previous work as a deputy.

“Steve has a ton of experience being an SRO and as a deputy,” Haney said. “He’s dealt with juveniles, which comes with its own set of rules and challenges. We’re glad to have him back, and his personality fits right in with the team.”

Coleman previously served as a deputy for the Big Horn County Sheriff’s Dept. and spent time as an SRO for Rocky Mountain and Lovell schools. His time working with young people shaped his approach to law enforcement, emphasizing de-escalation and building trust with the community.

“I’ve known Roger since we were deputies together, and this is the first time we’ve worked this closely,” Coleman said. “We bounce ideas off each other, and we’re both looking to improve the department and the way we’re seen in the community.”

Coleman’s return to Lovell is more than just a professional move, it’s a homecoming for him. After living for several years in Deaver, then working as an officer in Manderson, Coleman is excited to serve the community of Lovell once again.

“I’ve lived in Lovell for the last five years,” Coleman said. “Community is everything. You have neighbors, friends and co-workers, and the more you put into it, the more you get out of it.”

Coleman’s history in the area runs deep. In addition to his work as an SRO, he was instrumental in starting the SRO program at Rocky Mountain schools, and he has maintained strong connections with students and their families over the years.

A key part of Coleman’s approach to policing is making sure that interactions with the public, especially young people, are positive and productive. He shared how he makes an effort to counteract the negative perception some children have of law enforcement.

“I’ve heard parents say, ‘You better be good, or the officer’s going to come get you,’” Coleman said. “I make a point to stop and talk to those kids, to let them know I’m not here to get them. We’re here to help.”

For Coleman, the goal is to ensure that people in the community see the Lovell Police Department as a resource, not something to fear. He wants to continue fostering relationships that build trust and improve the overall perception of law enforcement in Lovell.

“I don’t want people to think Lovell PD is out to get them,” Coleman said. “We’re here to help. I want to make sure we’re doing the right things so the public can see that.”

Coleman’s law enforcement career began in Texas, where he was born and raised. His father served as a Command Sergeant Major at Fort Hood, instilling in him a strong sense of discipline and public service. After spending time in the military and working in various roles, Coleman moved to Wyoming, where he began his law enforcement career with the Big Horn County Sheriff’s Office.

“I worked for the Sheriff’s Department and was an SRO at Rocky Mountain,” Coleman said. “I’ve made strong connections with the kids, and now I run into them in town, and they still recognize me as Officer Coleman.” 

Returning to the Lovell Police Department feels like a natural progression for Coleman, who is excited to continue his work in the community he loves.

“I’m glad to be back,” Coleman said. “Lovell is a great town, and I’m looking forward to making a positive impact here.”