Ex-Ohio Cop, 25-Year-Old Max Arnett, Killed in Action While Volunteering with Ukrainian Military

CLEVELAND, Ohio — Maximilian Jacob “Max” Arnett, a 25-year-old from Dover, Ohio, was killed on August 23, 2025, during combat operations in Ukraine, where he was serving as a foreign volunteer with the Ukrainian Armed Forces. His death marks one of the latest instances of an American citizen and former law enforcement officer dying in the ongoing conflict with Russia.

Arnett was born on September 2, 1999, to Juli and Matt Arnett. His father served as Dover’s human resources director and previously worked as a police officer, further establishing the family's ties to public service. Max Arnett graduated from Dover High School in 2018 and went on to earn an associate degree in police science from Stark State College. He also completed certification through the Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy, equipping him for a career in law enforcement.

He began his service as a reserve officer in New Philadelphia before moving into full-time police work in Sugarcreek, Dover, and Kent, Ohio. Arnett joined the Kent Police Department in early 2024 and served there for just over a year before leaving in March 2025. A public statement issued by the Kent Police Department indicated that Arnett had become increasingly affected by the war in Ukraine and made the personal decision to leave his post in order to support Ukraine’s defense against Russia’s invasion.

Following his resignation, Arnett traveled to Ukraine and joined the 3rd Assault Brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces as an international volunteer. According to his obituary, he was appointed as a squad leader within the brigade, highlighting a rapid integration into the military structure despite his relatively short time in Ukraine and lack of prior military combat experience. While the specific region or operational context in which he was killed has not been disclosed, his death was directly attributed to combat activity.

Community reaction in Ohio was swift and somber. Local leaders, including those from Dover and Kent, expressed their condolences and reflected on Arnett’s character and service. Dover Mayor Shane Gunnoe noted that Arnett was a well-liked officer and that his loss was deeply felt throughout the area. The Kent Police Department publicly mourned his passing, acknowledging both his decision to serve abroad and the values that appeared to drive him.

Arnett had reportedly followed developments in Ukraine since Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimea, and family statements suggest that his involvement was driven by strong ideological beliefs. His obituary noted that he was committed to the ideals of freedom and democracy, and that his decision to volunteer in Ukraine was made with the support of his family, who despite their concerns, respected his conviction.

A Celebration of Life event is being planned by his family. In lieu of flowers, they have requested that memorial contributions be made to foundations supporting Ukrainian defense and humanitarian aid.

“He served with support of a family that, although sorry to see him leave and worried for his safety, respected his courage, commitment and his principled stand for freedom and democracy,” his obituary stated.

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