Powell Police Department memorializes Sgt. Travis Dennison
Published on July 15, 2026
In honor of National Glioblastoma Awareness Day on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, the Powell Police Department began utilizing new license plates on all marked police vehicles to memorialize late Sgt. Travis Dennison who sadly passed away on October 23, 2025, after a courageous battle against Glioblastoma.
The plates were designed with the input of staff, Travis’ wife Rachel and his daughter Teigan and include a gray ribbon for Glioblastoma awareness emblazoned with Sgt. Dennison’s badge number, 724.
Rachel installed the first plate onto cruiser 11, Sgt. Dennison’s patrol vehicle.
These plates serve as a lasting tribute to Sgt. Dennison’s service, dedication and legacy while raising awareness for Glioblastoma, one of the most aggressive and treatment-resistant forms of brain cancer.
Travis was a car enthusiast who loved collecting and working on cars as well as attending car shows. In 2013 he designed the current cruiser exteriors, making the license plate an appropriate way to honor his memory and passion for vehicles.
“This tribute is a lasting reminder that Travis' life, his service and the love he gave will never be forgotten,” Rachel said. “Travis had a heart for serving others, and a legacy of kindness and strength. Some legacies are measured in years, but the greatest ones are measured in the lives they continue to touch. It is hard to imagine a tribute that could represent him more perfectly.”
Sgt. Dennison faithfully served the Powell Police Department and our community for 18 years, demonstrating unwavering dedication, integrity and compassion. He began his law enforcement career with the Knox County Sheriff's Office in 2002 and joined the Powell Police Department in 2007 and was promoted to sergeant in 2022.
“When Travis was diagnosed, our world changed forever,” Rachel shared. "Throughout that journey, and after his passing, the City of Powell Police Department never stopped showing our family what true brotherhood looks like. This tribute is more than an act of remembrance - it reflects the love, respect and support they have shown our daughter and I every step of the way. Travis lived life in the fast lane, fueled by passion, driven by purpose and always chasing the next adventure. Travis's love for cars wasn't just a hobby - it was part of who he was. It brought him joy, freedom and a way to connect with others. From the rumble of the engine to the open road ahead, cars were where he felt most alive.”
Throughout his career, Sgt. Dennison displayed exceptional leadership and professionalism. In addition to serving as a Patrol Sergeant, he took on many vital roles, including Field Training Officer Supervisor, Shift Patrol Scheduler, Bike Patrol Supervisor, Uniform Committee Supervisor, Vehicle Maintenance Supervisor, Verbal De-Escalation Instructor, Simunition Instructor and Safety Camp Supervisor.
“Thanks to this incredible tribute, our daughter will forever have a visible reminder that her daddy's life, service and passion - both on and off the road - continue to inspire others every single day. We are humbled that this legacy will continue down roads Travis never had a chance to travel,” Rachel said.