WEEK OF 11/04/03-11/11/03

DISTRICT ONE

POLICE OFFICER SEAN WOODS
POLICE OFFICER DAVID GREGORY
POLICE OFFICER JOHN HEINE

On October 9, 2003, Police Officers John Heine, David Gregory and Sean Woods were assigned to bicycle patrol in the Over the Rhine Community. During the patrol, two individuals were observed engaged in suspected criminal activity on Green Street at Republic Street. The officers attempted to stop the individuals for further investigation. One individual refused to comply with commands, attempted to flee and then began to violently resist arrest when caught by the officers. The officers took the individual to the ground and attempted to handcuff him. The suspect continued to violently resist arrest while concealing his right hand beneath his body. Officer Woods grabbed the hand and quickly realized the suspect was armed with a firearm. Officer Woods alerted the other officers of the firearm and prevented the suspect from discharging the weapon. The officers successfully disarmed the suspect using minimal force. The officers handcuffed the suspect despite being struck with debris from glass bottles being thrown by a gathering crowd. Officers' Heine, Woods, and Gregory are deserving of this commendation for their professionalism and dedication to duty during the arrest of this dangerous subject and the recovery of a loaded Hi Point semiautomatic pistol.

WEEK OF 09/23/03-09/30/03

POLICE OFFICER MICHAEL BROGAN
POLICE OFFICER CHRISTOPHER VOGELPOHL

On July 24, 2003, Officers Michael Brogan and Christopher Vogelpohl received information from Police Specialist Cliff Wright of Cleves Police Department regarding a potential methamphetamine laboratory in the Saylor Park area. Officers' Vogelpohl, Brogan and other officers initiated an investigation, gathered additional intelligence information and conducted surveillance on the location. The investigation culminated in the execution of a search warrant and the recovery of a large amount of pseudoephedrine, over five pounds of methamphetamine, production by-products, paraphernalia, and elaborate production equipment. Officer’s Vogelpohl, and Brogan are deserving of this official commendation for their tenacity, excellent investigative skills and dedication to duty, which resulted in the arrest of three subjects for Trafficking in Drugs, Possession of Drugs, Permitting Drug Abuse and Illegal Assembly or Possession of Chemicals for the Manufacture of Drugs. Their actions also resulted in the removal of a potential health and safety hazard in the City of Cincinnati.

POLICE OFFICER CHRISTOPHER VOGELPOHL
POLICE SERGEANT DWAYNE WILSON
POLICE SPECIALIST ROYCE WINTERS
POLICE OFFICER JENNIFER ERNST
LIEUTENANT DOUGLAS VENTRE

On August 31, 2003, Officer Vogelpohl was assigned to the Mount Adams Traffic Detail and observed a female subject sitting on the railing of Columbia Parkway, just west of the Martin Drive ramp. He approached this female and engaged her in conversation. Officer Vogelpohl quickly determined that the female subject was extremely distraught and was contemplating suicide. The female was perched in a position that, if she jumped, she would fall 50 to 60 feet. Officer Vogelpohl quietly broadcast his location and requested appropriate assistance in handling this situation. Officer Vogelpohl's efforts were critical in that, not only did he keep the female occupied but this provided valuable time for responding officers to close traffic channels, summon emergency medical assistance, and develop a plan to handle the situation. Lieutenant Ventre responded to the scene and conducted a tactical assessment. Lieutenant Ventre summoned and placed appropriate resources both above and below the scene to handle any contingency in a timely manner and he developed a strategic plan to rescue the distraught female if negotiations failed. Officer Ernst responded to the scene and immediately assumed the role of the primary crisis negotiator. She initiated a conversation with the female and established rapport. This not only served to comfort the distraught female, but it provided valuable time for other officers to develop strategies to handle the various contingencies this situation entailed. Officer Ernst was successful in keeping the female talking.

Specialist Winters responded to the scene and immediately assumed the role of the secondary crisis negotiator, assisting Police Officer Jennifer Ernst. Specialist Winters positioned himself so he could assist Officer Ernst if the female suddenly reached out or grabbed hold of Officer Ernst. Sergeant Wilson responded to the scene and assisted in the development of a strategy to handle the situation. Sergeant Wilson quietly approached the female from behind, while she was speaking with a crisis negotiator, getting close enough that, when the female seemed prepared to jump, he was able to close distance, wrap his arms around her, and pull her back over the railing to safety.

Lieutenant Ventre noticed the female had established a pattern of speaking with the crisis negotiator, Officer Ernst, for several seconds, then looking over her other shoulder at Lieutenant Ventre and Sergeant Wilson. Lieutenant Ventre, through the use of eye contact and gestures, directed Sergeant Wilson further left as Lieutenant Ventre drifted further right to where this allowed Sergeant Wilson to close the distance while Lieutenant Ventre maintained his position. When it became apparent that time was dwindling, Officer Ernst signaled to Lieutenant Ventre and Sergeant Wilson to perform an involuntary rescue. This resulted in the successful conclusion of the incident with no harm to anyone. After the female was safely in custody, Officer Ernst stayed with her and spoke comfortingly to her while awaiting an ambulance.

Police Officer Vogelpohl is to be commended for his dedication to duty, bravery, and compassion. With no warning at all, Officer Vogelpohl found himself thrust into a situation where the wrong word or gesture could have tragic consequences. Officer Ernst is to be commended for her dedication to duty. Without her successful intervention, this situation would have likely had a tragic end.

Specialist Winters played a vital role in saving the life of a mentally disturbed and intoxicated person. It is commendable that Specialist Winters was able to respond so quickly and immediately immerse himself in an incredibly tense situation. Sergeant Wilson's ability to think quickly, make correct assessments, and work as a team with other critical incident responders is outstanding. Finally, Sergeant Wilson displayed incredible resolve and physical strength in securing this female to ensure that she did not harm herself or anyone else. These officers are truly an asset to the Cincinnati Police Department and are indeed worthy of official commendation.

WEEK OF 09/09/03-09/16/03

YOUTH SERVICES SECTION
POLICE SPECIALIST CLIFTON MITCHELL

On August 13, 2003, after serving for thirteen years as a member of the Cincinnati Police Department SWAT Unit, Police Specialist Clifton D. Mitchell requested that he be relieved of his duties as an active member of the unit. Specialist Mitchell was selected for the team from a group of highly qualified candidates. He has served with distinction as a member of the SWAT Unit and made a significant contribution to the SWAT program. Specialist Mitchell is deserving of this official commendation because of his commitment and dedicated service to the SWAT organization.

WEEK OF 08/24/03-08/30/03

D.A.R.E. UNIT
POLICE OFFICER JACKIE LILLIS

On August 6, 2003, Police Officer Jackie Lillis was recognized by D.A.R.E. Association of Ohio for her 10 years of dedicated service to the D.A.R.E. Program. Since her assignment to the Cincinnati Police Department's D.A.R.E. Unit in 1993, she has instructed over 50,000 students in the principles of D.A.R.E. Police Officer Lillis continues to display professionalism and dedication to the D.A.R.E. Program and is deserving of this commendation.

WEEK OF 08/24/03-08/30/03

D.A.R.E. UNIT
POLICE OFFICER JACKIE LILLIS

On August 6, 2003, Police Officer Jackie Lillis was recognized by D.A.R.E. Association of Ohio for her 10 years of dedicated service to the D.A.R.E. Program. Since her assignment to the Cincinnati Police Department's D.A.R.E. Unit in 1993, she has instructed over 50,000 students in the principles of D.A.R.E. Police Officer Lillis continues to display professionalism and dedication to the D.A.R.E. Program and is deserving of this commendation.

WEEK OF 08/24/03-08/30/03

D.A.R.E. UNIT
POLICE OFFICER JACKIE LILLIS

On August 6, 2003, Police Officer Jackie Lillis was recognized by D.A.R.E. Association of Ohio for her 10 years of dedicated service to the D.A.R.E. Program. Since her assignment to the Cincinnati Police Department's D.A.R.E. Unit in 1993, she has instructed over 50,000 students in the principles of D.A.R.E. Police Officer Lillis continues to display professionalism and dedication to the D.A.R.E. Program and is deserving of this commendation.

WEEK OF 08/19/03-08/26/03

DISTRICT ONE
SERGEANT ROGER ROBBINS
POLICE OFFICER JEFFREY DUNAWAY

In February 2003, a Cincinnati Police Dispatcher received several threatening letters and packages from a former Police 911 Operator Trainee. Sergeant Robbins coordinated and assisted in the investigation of this case. Officer Dunaway was assigned as the primary officer investigating the case. Over a three-month period, Sergeant Robbins utilized extensive investigative techniques to determine the origination of the letters, and determine who was responsible for disrupting and creating fear in a fellow employee’s life. Some of the packages delivered contained rotten materials, but Officer Dunaway diligently ensured all items were thoroughly processed for evidence. Additionally, Officer Dunaway and Sergeant Robbins showed compassion for the victim and enlisted the assistance of other police personnel both inside and outside our Police Department to conduct surveillance and provide security to ensure the well being of our employee. Sergeant Robbins ensured this case was treated as a high priority. As a result of their dedication to duty, the suspect was convicted of a stalking offense in Hamilton County Court. Since that time, there have been no more threatening letters or packages. Sergeant Robbins and Officer Dunaway are to be commended for their leadership, perseverance and investigative skills in investigating, arresting and convicting this individual.

WEEK OF 08/19/03-08/26/03

DISTRICT ONE
SERGEANT ROGER ROBBINS
POLICE OFFICER JEFFREY DUNAWAY

In February 2003, a Cincinnati Police Dispatcher received several threatening letters and packages from a former Police 911 Operator Trainee. Sergeant Robbins coordinated and assisted in the investigation of this case. Officer Dunaway was assigned as the primary officer investigating the case. Over a three-month period, Sergeant Robbins utilized extensive investigative techniques to determine the origination of the letters, and determine who was responsible for disrupting and creating fear in a fellow employee’s life. Some of the packages delivered contained rotten materials, but Officer Dunaway diligently ensured all items were thoroughly processed for evidence. Additionally, Officer Dunaway and Sergeant Robbins showed compassion for the victim and enlisted the assistance of other police personnel both inside and outside our Police Department to conduct surveillance and provide security to ensure the well being of our employee. Sergeant Robbins ensured this case was treated as a high priority. As a result of their dedication to duty, the suspect was convicted of a stalking offense in Hamilton County Court. Since that time, there have been no more threatening letters or packages. Sergeant Robbins and Officer Dunaway are to be commended for their leadership, perseverance and investigative skills in investigating, arresting and convicting this individual.

WEEK OF 07/14/03-07/21/03

DISTRICT ONE
POLICE SPECIALIST PATRICK MURRAY

On June 13 and 14, 2003, Police Specialist Patrick Murray and his canine partner "Jake" (an Explosive Detection Canine), competed in the "Muncie Police Department- Vohne Liche Kennels K-9 Olympics." Specialist Murray and his partner Jake took 1st Place in "Explosive Detection-Buildings." Specialist Murray and Jake competed against nine other bomb dog teams from across the country. They were the only team to find all five of the explosive device aids used in competition. This is a special credit to Specialist Murray and Jake since they have been working together for just over a year. Police Specialist Patrick Murray and Jake are deserving of this commendation and is a reflection of their hard work, training, dedication to duty, and professionalism.

WEEK OF WEEK OF 07/07/03-07/14/03

CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION SECTION
POLICE SPECIALIST JANE NOEL
POLICE OFFICER STEVEN VENTRE
SERGEANT KENNETH WELLS

On August 25, 2002, Police Specialist Jane Noel was assigned to investigate a series of rape offenses that were occurring in the Pleasant Ridge Area. Specialist Noel teamed up with Police Officer Steven Ventre, who was investigating two similar rape offenses. In all of the offenses, the suspect’s identity was concealed from the victims. Specialist Noel and Officer Ventre reviewed information on all the cases and developed a profile of the suspect. On September 12, 2002, a new offense was assigned to Specialist Noel and Officer Ventre. This offense was not reported as a rape, but after review and further investigation, Specialist Noel and Officer Ventre connected the offense to the previous rape offenses through DNA analysis. On January 13, 2003, another offense occurred in the target area with the same victim and location as the September 12, 2002 offense. Specialist Noel and Officer Ventre returned to the scene of this new offense and discovered evidence that directly linked the serial rapist. Acting on the patterns and characteristics of the serial rapist, surveillance was conducted in the target neighborhood. During one surveillance, a suspect fitting the profile was observed discarding a cigarette. Sergeant Wells retrieved the discarded cigarette butt and processed it for DNA analysis. This information directly resulted in the arrest of Timothy Ferguson for a series of rape offenses that occurred between 1993 and 2002 in the Pleasant Ridge area. The professional behavior, dedication and investigative skills of Sergeant Wells, Specialist Noel, and Officer Ventre, resulted in the apprehension of a serial rapist. Their actions in solving this heinous crime are an example of their dedication to the Department and the community. They are deserving of this official commendation.

DISTRICT ONE INVESTIGATIVE UNIT
POLICE OFFICER PATRICK GALLIGAN

Officer Galligan was assigned to the 2002 Holiday Robbery Task Force. Throughout 2002, the City of Cincinnati experienced a rise in violent crime. It appeared this level of violence would continue into 2003, as the year started with three homicides and several other violent offenses. Officer Galligan was part of the brainstorming session that was held searching for the best ways to counter the wave of violence. The Task Force developed a plan to employ numerous officers to concentrate on identified persons and groups responsible for violent crimes. A particular criminal group based in the West End neighborhood was identified and targeted for enforcement action. One member, Charles Murrell, was widely known for his role in violent crimes. This individual and his group of associates caused tremendous fear among the community, making witnesses afraid to testify in court.

Officer Galligan was aware of an Aggravated Robbery and a Felonious Assault that occurred where Charles Murrell was a suspect. The case was closed by District One because the victim was too frightened to testify. Recognizing this as an opportunity to directly address a violent offender, Officer Galligan re-opened the case, located the victim and finally convinced him to report the facts of the offense. Officer Galligan compiled enough information and evidence to secure a felony indictment against Charles Murrell. Officer Galligan had to repeatedly spend time with the victim, continually reassuring him that he was doing the right thing. After a full jury trial, which hinged on the testimony of the victim, Charles Murrell was convicted of both offenses. He was recently sentenced to sixteen years in prison.

Officer Galligan not only took extra steps to solve a violent crime that was otherwise unsolvable, but he recognized the greater value of dismantling a group of violent offenders by removing the most violent person amongst them. Officer Galligan displayed incredible patience, perseverance, and a willingness to personally commit himself for the sake of an entire neighborhood. Since this prosecution, the criminal activity in the area has decreased, the community is elated, and other open cases may well be solved as a result. Officer Galligan’s conduct is an outstanding example of working in partnership with the community to provide a safe environment where the quality of life is improved through the delivery of police service.

WEEK OF 06/24/03-07/01/03

DISTRICT TWO
POLICE OFFICER JOSEPH COWAN

On May 23, 2003, Police Officer Joseph Cowan heard an all-county broadcast of an Auto Robbery at gunpoint that occurred in District One. The broadcast gave descriptions of two suspects. Approximately ninety minutes later, Officer Cowan noticed a person matching the description of one of the suspects at Hewitt and Wold Avenues. Officer Cowan checked the surrounding area and subsequently recovered the stolen vehicle. Officer Cowan returned to where he observed the possible suspect and continued his investigation. The suspect possessed the key to the stolen vehicle. The suspect was arrested and gave a full confession. Police Officer Joseph Cowan is deserving of this commendation for his keen observation skills, attention to detail, and commitment to duty, which resulted in the apprehension of a violent felon.

WEEK OF 06/03/03-06/10/03

POLICE OFFICER ANTHONY UPCHURCH
SERGEANT DAN NICKUM

On April 27, 2003 while working an off duty detail at Walgreens located an #1 West Corry Street, Police officer Anthony Upchurch responded to a citizen’s report of a person with a gun. As Officer Upchurch approached the side parking lot of Kroger’s store he came upon six armed subjects committing an Aggravated Robbery of nine victims laying face down at gunpoint. Officer Upchurch took cover and called for assistance. The subjects after seeing the officer began to flee with two subjects taking cover behind a vehicle.

Sergeant Nickum in plain clothes approached the area in an unmarked police vehicle and came upon a green vehicle fleeing the area. Sergeant Nickum began following the vehicle through the parking lot and observed the occupants throw guns from the vehicle. After the suspect vehicle became stuck in traffic the suspects exited and fled the scene. Sergeant Nickum apprehended one subject without incident.

Officer Upchurch used his covered position to give descriptions and directions to the responding units. Three subjects were taken into custody and were charged with Aggravated Robbery. There were four handguns recovered at the scene. Officer Upchurch showed great bravery at the scene and his actions and tactics were outstanding. His calm response to a rapidly changing situation prevented a single shot from being fired and resulted in no injuries to any officer, victim or suspect.

Sergeant Dan Nickum and Officer Anthony Upchurch are deserving of this commendation for their dedication to duty, keen attention to detail and extreme professionalism in the performance of their duties.

WEEK OF 05/13/03-05/20/03

DISTRICT THREE
POLICE OFFICER ALICE McSHANE
POLICE OFFICER MICHAEL HARPER

WEEK OF 3/23/03-3/29/03

SPECIAL SERVICES SECTION
POLICE SPECIALIST CHARLES BEEBE
POLICE OFFICER PAUL GREIN

On November 11, 2002, Police Specialist Charles Beebe and Police Officer Paul Grein were assigned to investigate an auto accident at 6406 Madison Road where a pedestrian was struck and seriously injured. Mr. James Dixon was struck by a vehicle, which fled the scene. Mr. Dixon later died from his injuries. Specialist Beebe and Officer Grein conducted a thorough crime scene analysis and were able to gather incriminating evidence against the driver of the vehicle. Their dedication to duty, investigative abilities, interviewing techniques and knowledge of accident scene reconstruction enabled them to obtain a confession from the
vehicle driver and bring this case to a successful conclusion. Mr. Dixon’s family is very grateful for the investigation conducted by these officers.

WEEK OF 2/23/03-3/01/03

DISTRICT ONE
POLICE OFFICER SCOTT KRAUSER

On January 14, 2003, after serving for nine years as a member of the Cincinnati Police Department SWAT Unit, Police Officer Scott Krauser requested that he be relieved of his duties as an active member of the unit Officer Krauser was selected for the team from a group of highly qualified candidates. He has served with distinction as a member of the SWAT Unit and made a significant contribution to the program. Officer Krauser is deserving of this commendation for his commitment and dedicated service to the SWAT Unit.

WEEK OF 01/21/03-01/28/03

DISTRICT FOUR
POLICE OFFICER ANGELA SMALLWOOD

On December 8, 2002, Officer Angela Smallwood was on routine patrol when she was flagged down by Mr. Custard and informed that an armed man had just robbed the United Dairy Farmers Store at 3030 Burnet Avenue. Mr. Custard then pointed in the direction of a subject walking across Martin Luther King Drive and stated he was the person who committed the offense. The individual fled as Officer Smallwood approached in her vehicle. She exited her vehicle and caught up to him after a short foot chase. Officer Smallwood was able to remove a weapon from him and call for assistance over the radio as he continued to resist arrest. She maintained control of him until responding officers assisted her in handcuffing the suspect. Officer Smallwood is deserving of this commendation for her dedication to duty, observation, and tactical skills that resulted in the arrest of Othel Turner. Officer Smallwood’s actions led to the removal of a violent felon from the streets and recovery of stolen property.

DETECTIVE ROBERT HEINLEIN
DETECTIVE WILLIAM HILBERT
CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION SECTION

On April 15, 2002, Sara Ridder was found shot to death inside her Westwood home. Sara Ridder’s brutal murder was compounded by the fact that her small children were inside the apartment when she was killed. Police Detectives Robert Heinlein and William Hilbert responded to the scene and were immediately assigned as the lead detectives. The detectives quickly determined that there were no witnesses and the crime scene would yield minimal evidence. The officers’ investigation, which began with so little information ended eight months later with the arrests of William David Boyles and Michael Neely. The investigation required hundreds of hours of interviews, background work and coordination with prosecutors. As a result of their outstanding investigative skills, they were successful in the apprehension of the two subjects charged in connection with Ms. Ridder’s murder and the recovery of the murder weapon. These officers are deserving of this commendation for their dedication to duty, teamwork, and tenacity which resulted in the arrest of two dangerous felons.

WEEK OF 01/19/03-01/25/03

DISTRICT FOUR
POLICE OFFICER LINDA SIMS

On November 24, 2002, Police Officer Linda Sims was dispatched to 634 Gholson Avenue for a report of an attempted auto theft. While speaking with the omplainant, Mr. Otis Edwards, Officer Sims noticed that he appeared ill. Officer Sims called for a rescue unit and suggested that he go to the hospital for examination. Initially, Mr. Edwards was opposed to the idea but Officer Sims was able to persuade him. During his examination at Christ Hospital, Mr. Edwards was told that he was in cardiac arrest and would not have survived had he waited another hour before responding to the hospital. Officer Sims’ keen observation and concern for Mr. Edwards was instrumental in saving his life. Officer Sims is deserving of this commendation for her observation and quick response to a citizen’s medical needs.

POLICE ACADEMY
SERGEANT ANTHONY R. SHEARER

On December 3, 2002, after serving for six years as a member of the Cincinnati Police Department SWAT Unit, Sergeant Anthony R.Shearer requested that he be relieved of his duties as an active member of the unit. Sergeant Shearer was selected for the team from a group of highly qualified candidates. He has served with distinction as a member of the SWAT Unit and made a significant contribution to the SWAT program. Sergeant Shearer is deserving of this commendation because of his commitment and dedicated service to the SWAT organization.