Three Liverpool police officers who subdued a man who had threatened to kill a policeman in the village were honored with commendations at the Oct. 20 meeting of the Village Board of Trustees.
Police Chief Don Morris presented plaques to Sgt. Michael Manns and officers Fred Brough and Peter Rauch.
“Each of these officers showed courage and professionalism in their exceptional performance of their duty that night,” Morris said.
The incident had occurred outside Village Hall on the night of Tuesday, Sept. 9, when the three policemen were confronted by an emotionally disturbed person apparently armed with a handgun. Earlier that evening a citizen had reported to police that he’d encountered a man in the village business district and he was apparently armed with a handgun and making threats against the Liverpool police.
Outside Village Hall on Sycamore Street, the officers drew their weapons as the man held his gun to his head. Eventually, Manns approached the subject from behind and Tasered him so he could be safely apprehended. The man’s weapon turned out to be a realistic toy modeled after a .45 caliber pistol.
“The three officers saw an opportunity to dictate the situation and bring it to a successful conclusion,” Morris said. The suspect was transported to St. Joseph’s Hospital psychiatric unit for evaluation.
“The next day he called and left me a voicemail message,” Morris said. “He apologized for the incident and praised the officers for the way they handled it,”
The chief also presented a commendation to longtime school crossing guard Barbara Brown in recognition of her 25 years of service to the community. Brown works at the corner of Sixth and Oswego streets.
“For Barb, this is not just a job, but something she really loves,” Morris said. “I stopped by her corner recently and saw several former students — they’re young adults now — stop by and say hello to her.”
Brown flashed a big smile as she accepted the plaque. “I really do enjoy my job,” she said.
Three DWIs in September
At the Oct. 20 village board meeting, Morris informed trustees that officers made 305 traffic stops and issued 187 citations for violations of the state’s vehicle and traffic laws during September. In addition, 16 traffic accidents were investigated and three arrests were made for driving while intoxicated.
Officers made 169 residential property checks during the month while answering a total of 489 complaints and calls for service.
The LPD arrested 19 persons in September on a total of 25 criminal charges.
