Image Credit: FILE PHOTO
November 17, 2016 - 6:30 PM
KAMLOOPS - A Kamloops Constable is being honoured by the provincial government for his work at helping save a fellow officer's life.
In a news release, the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General recognized Const. Steven Marcil, an officer who was fresh out of depot in 2014 when a suspect fired six rounds at fellow officer Cpl. Jean-Rene Michaud.
The ministry said Marcil used exceptional judgement during the incident. Court heard in the sentencing hearing for Michaud's shooter, Kenneth Knutson, that Michaud had pulled a white sedan over for allegedly being involved in drug trafficking.
After following the vehicle from the North Shore to Batchelor Heights, Michaud read the license plate number to dispatch and asked for back up. Knutson fired six rounds at Michaud and Marcil returned fire, emptying his magazine in the process.
Knutson fled and officers provided first-aid to Michaud. Kamloops RCMP Supt. Brad Mueller previously said Marcil's actions were instrumental in saving Michaud's life.
Marcil is one of 55 other men and women of law enforcement being honoured at B.C.'s 35th annual Police Honours Night this evening, Nov. 17.
He's one of 16 officers receiving the award of valour, the highest award for a police officer in B.C. Another 40 officers were given meritorious service honours, which recognize exemplary performance that exceeds expectations.
"Policing is no ordinary career. It takes guts, stamina, bravery and quick thinking," Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General Mike Morris said in the release. "Each and every one of these awards reflects a situation that has brought out the very best in some of the men and women who serve British Columbians every day."
While Const. David Gammon was working with Ashcroft RCMP, he rescued a woman and her children from their vehicle after becoming trapped during a flash flood.
Penticton South Okanagan Similkameen Regional Detachment Cpl. Brian Burke who previously worked with the Penticton South Okanagan Similkameen Regional Detachment is recognized for displaying exceptional commitment and leadership during the search for two missing hikers.
Four officers from Kelowna RCMP's Serious Crime Unit are being recognized for displaying exceptional dedication during a homicide investigation targeting members and associates of an organized crime group. Sft. Joanne Collins, Cpl. Paul Gosling, Const. Bernna Barkman and an unnamed officer were given the award.
Dozens of other officers from across the province were also recognized for their dedication.
For more of our stories on Cpl. Michaud, go here.
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News from © iNFOnews, 2016