Officer Brandon Hodges and Officer Aaron Hope were selected as the Western District Officers of the Month for February 2013. They were recognized for their outstanding efforts in saving the life of an individual who attempted suicide. They were presented with the award on July 22, 2013.
On Jan. 5, 2013, Officers Hodges and Hope conducted a welfare check on a suicidal adult male. The man was depressed and posted a message on social media threatening to harm himself. He also had a prior suicide attempt several months earlier. When the officers arrived on scene they discovered the victim hanging. They worked in tandem to hold the victim’s legs and cut the extension cord. The victim was unconscious, breathing erratically, and unresponsive. Officers Hodges and Hope monitored the victim and provided medical attention until Fire and Rescue arrived. When paramedics rendered aid the man, now conscious, became combative. The officers assisted in maintaining physical control of the man so his injuries could be addressed.
The Fire Battalion Chief on the scene made a point to recognize Officers Hodges and Hope, saying that the man likely would have died if not for their quick actions and first aid.
The courageous and decisive actions of Officer Hope and Officer Hodges were instrumental in saving the man’s life. For this, they truly deserve the Officer of the Month award.
