Life Saving Incident
January 6, 2024
Washington DC
Washington County
Washington DC
On January 6, 2024 United States Capitol Police Officer Sutcliffe was dispatched to a radio call regarding an individual who appeared to be attempting suicide. Officer Sutcliffe went to the scene which was the Hopscotch Bridge. He was met there by Officer Christopher Boyle of the Metropolitan Police. Upon arriving the officers observed and individual who was straddling the bridge railing. The man had a cable around his neck with the end of the cable affixed to the railing. It was apparent the man intended to commit suicide. The officers approached the man. Officer Sutcliffe began speaking with the man while Officer Boyle positioned himself so that he could grab the man if Suttcliffe's efforts did not succeed. Using excellent de-escalation skills the officers persuaded the man to not hang himself and he was helped down from the railing. Both officers were recognized for their efforts by Chief of Police Pamela Smith and were presented life saving medals. Chief Smith stated "Our officers work with the Capitol Police on many calls. The teamwork shown by these officers is an example of the close collaboration of the two departments. "I am grateful for their quick thinking, empathy, humanity and heroic actions that helped save a man's life.
The history of law enforcement in the United States is a long and wonderful history of bravery. This website is dedicated to documenting the heroic deeds of law enforcement officers throughout the United States who have either given or risked their lives to save others. There are many stories of bravery and heroism for many who are considered first responders. However, it is those in law enforcement who are most likely to be the first to arrive upon a location requiring life saving acts engaging dangerous hostage takers, running into burning buildings/vehicles, providing first aid to seriously injured victims, saving near drowning victims and much more are what the women and men of law enforcement do routinely and at many times, great peril to their own safety.
It is our mission to document the history of lives saved by those dedicated women and men in law enforcement. To share with others the dramatic deeds of those individuals who are the first, first responders. It is so important for our citizens to understand that law "enforcement" is not always about enforcing the law but rather being there when our citizens need us.
It is to this end we are dedicated to promoting documentation regarding the history of law enforcement and the lives they have saved.
