Fredo Award Letter

Award Letter issued by Michael G. Grover, Chief of Police  

December 11, 2000

During the early morning hours of October 10, 2000, Officers Steve Timm and Britt Munoz were involved in a serious physical fight with Laird Douglass Jr.

Douglass committed a robbery at Scarpelli's Short Stop Market and was located a short time later by Officer Munoz. During his arrest, Douglass struggled and fought with the officers. He appeared to be under the influence of a pain altering substance as he was sprayed directly with capstun yet still continued fighting with Officers Munoz and Timm. The fight lasted six to seven minutes, during which time the officers were being overpowered.

Officer Munoz was struck several times in the head and body, breaking his glasses and cutting his face, temporarily disabling him. The blows caused officer Munoz's handgun to fall from his holster, becoming available to the suspect, or his girlfriend who was observing the fight. Officer Timm continued to fight with the suspect using his collapsible baton. The strikes from the baton did nothing to stop the suspect. Douglass struck Officer Timm in the head and face, disorienting Timm causing grave concern that Douglass may be able to disarm the officers.

With the fear of deadly force being used against them, Officer Munoz retreated to the K-9 vehicle and released Fredo. Fredo immediately began defending the officers who at this point were injured, exhausted and disoriented. Fredo engaged the suspect, who struck Fredo several times in the head and upper body. Fredo continued to defend the officers. The suspect attempted to strangle Fredo by choking him; however, Fredo continued to defend the officers.

The officers finally secured the suspect in handcuffs even though he continued to resist.

Based on the suspect's actions, it leaves no doubt in my mind the officers would have had to shoot the suspect to stop his physical violence toward them. Fredo engaged the suspect and continued to defend the officers even when he was being struck and choked. Fredo never thought of his own safety, only the safety of Officers Timm and Munoz. His action of October 10, 2000 is in the highest tradition of law enforcement and a direct reflection of our K-9 Program.

Well Done!

Sincerely,

 

Michael G. Grover,

Chief of Police