JEFFERSON CITY — Sheriff Mike Bonham accepts the Law Enforcement Commendation Medal from Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) member Sam Bushman, who nominated him for the award.

This prestigious award recognizes Bonham’s outstanding service, unwavering dedication, and exceptional leadership in law enforcement.

Bushman, who is also the Cole County Presiding Commissioner, praised Bonham’s work not only with his department but also with Osage County youth through the Junior Deputy Program.

Sheriff Bonham is a committed law enforcement leader and a devoted servant of his faith, with a strong focus on community service and public safety. A native of Missouri, Bonham graduated from Lindbergh High School in St. Louis in 1981 before initially pursuing a career in the private sector. In 1989, he felt a divine calling to serve in law enforcement and joined the department in Lead Hill, Ark., before being elected as Crockett Township Constable.

Bonham later returned to Missouri, where he earned his degree in Pastoral Care from Global University and received specialized training from Homeland Security. A qualified hazardous material specialist with an emphasis on surface transportation, he also served as the pastor of Grace Family Worship Center in Belle, marking the start of his dual calling to both ministry and law enforcement.

In 2016, Rev. Bonham made history by being the first ordained minister elected to serve as Osage County sheriff.

Bushman said that under Bonham’s leadership, the Sheriff’s Office has been instrumental in shaping policies and initiatives that enhance public safety and strengthen community relationships. Notably, Bonham established the Junior Deputy Program for fifth and sixth-grade students to educate and engage youth in law enforcement activities and instill a sense of responsibility and civic duty.

Additionally, he founded the Marine Watercraft Program and the Aeronautical Drone Program, which have played a vital role in improving search and rescue capabilities, crime scene investigations, and overall safety.

Bonham has been deeply involved in several key law enforcement initiatives, such as the Mid-Missouri Drug Task Force and the Osage County Anti-Drug Community Action Team (OC-ADCAT). He has also been a prominent advocate for law enforcement policy development through his work with the Missouri Sheriff’s Association (MSA, 2023-28), including the Legislative Committee (2019-25), Nomination Committee (2022-23), Training Committee (2021-23), and Budget and Finance Committee (2021-2023).

Bonham holds several leadership roles in various organizations, including

Bibleway Executive Board and Chaplaincy President, OC-ADCAT Board, 911 Advisory Board, Lincoln University Law Enforcement Training Academy Board, Enforcement and Training Committee, MSA Executive Board (MSA Zone 9 Leader (alternate), Board of Advisors–Mid Missouri Major Case Squad, MoSmart Board (2020-25), RHSOC Board (representing sheriffs) (2020-25), Board of Advisors–LETI Columbia (2000-24), National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (2022-25), Mike Kehoe Public Safety Committee (2024-25), and SafetyNet Board Member (2024-26).

Bushman noted that in addition to his law enforcement duties, Rev. Bonham remains deeply committed to his faith. He continues to lead as a dynamic preacher and teacher, designing and instructing chaplaincy courses across the country. Through his leadership in both law enforcement and ministry, Bonham’s mission remains to serve others and share the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Mike is married to Glenda Ann, and they have four children: Amanda, Adam, Keegan, and Lauren. His family, faith, and service to the public are at the heart of his life’s work as he continues to exemplify the calling to serve both God and his community.