A neighborhood police detective who tackled an alleged court docket attacker final month has been honored for serving to court docket officers cease the assault.
Stoneham Police Det. Chris Copan was introduced with a letter of commendation on the city’s annual City Assembly for his actions at Woburn District Courtroom on April 14.
A 28-year-old man that morning allegedly deployed pepper spray and assaulted folks on the courthouse.
The Stoneham detective was in Woburn District Courtroom on the time on police enterprise. The suspect was sporting tactical gear, together with a helmet and fuel masks.
Copan reportedly rushed ahead and tackled the suspect, later recognized as Nicholas Akerberg. At that time, a number of court docket officers helped as the person was taken into custody.
A number of individuals who had been within the foyer on the time had been handled and launched from native hospitals following the incident, which was captured on court docket surveillance video.
The suspect was carrying eight pepper spray canisters and two smoke cannisters.
“In that second of disaster, Detective Copan made a split-second choice with out figuring out the complete extent of the menace,” Police Chief James O’Connor advised City Assembly. “When he intervened, his braveness, professionalism, and dedication to defending others was on full show.
“Due to his fast and decisive actions, the suspect was subdued, lives had been protected, and what may have been a way more devastating occasion was introduced below management,” the police chief added.
Copan has served the neighborhood with the Stoneham Police Division since 2000. He has been a detective for about 10 years. Copan can also be a U.S. Military veteran.
“Law enforcement officials settle for the truth that they might be known as upon at any second to face unpredictable and life-threatening conditions,” O’Connor wrote within the letter of commendation. “Detective Copan’s actions mirror the very best requirements of legislation enforcement, demonstrating distinctive bravery, sound judgment, and a deep dedication to the security of others. His conduct introduced each native and nationwide acclaim to the Stoneham Police Division and serves as a proud instance of the professionalism and valor embodied by its officers.”
Following the court docket incident, Akerberg was charged with six counts of assault and battery with a harmful weapon, 5 counts of assault and battery on a public worker, two counts of assault and battery on a police officer, assault, disrupting a court docket continuing, disorderly conduct, bomb menace, and intimidation.
