Three members of the Minneapolis Police Department’s 4th Precinct were recognized at the department’s annual Awards Banquet on February 12 for their exceptional service to the department and the community.
Officer Bruce Johnson was awarded the 4th Precinct Officer of the Year Award. Officer Johnson is a 37-year veteran patrol officer assigned to the 4th Precinct, Day-watch, Broadway Beat; which is a major Northside commercial district. Many resources have been invested in this area, but without removing the “fear of crime” these resources would be wasted. Two years ago, before Johnson took this assignment, the area was plagued by violent crime and open air drug dealing.
A recent drive down Johnson’s beat shows the progress which has resulted from his efforts. The Hawthorne Crossings Shopping Center and Cub Foods are two examples of businesses that are growing because of Officer Johnson’s actions.
Officer Johnson’s efforts have not only revitalized current businesses in the area, but also led to commitments by other organizations to invest in the area with millions of more dollars. Johnson is a role model to officers at the 4th Precinct and is a prime example that even after 37 years, you don’t have to succumb to “burnout.” Johnson’s efforts are living proof that once people feel safe they will return to a commercial district and revitalize it.
Officer James Burns was awarded the Minneapolis Police Department’s Medal of Honor for his heroic actions on May 12, 2007. At 2 a.m. Burns had just completed working an off-duty job when he responded to a shots fired call at the 4th Street Saloon.
Upon arriving at the Saloon, he heard the distinct sound of gun shots coming from the front of the business. As Officer Burns arrived, he observed the suspect shooting a man, who subsequently died from his injuries. Burns, who was alone, immediately got out of his squad and confronted the gunman. The suspect saw the fully uniformed Burns, but did not drop his weapon. Instead, he pointed it in the direction of Officer Burns. Officer Burns fired his weapon at the gunman striking him. The gunman ran a short distance before he collapsed, dropping his gun in the street.
Officer Burns did not know that among the large, chaotic crowd, there were at least five additional gunshot victims with serious injuries. It is very clear that the gunman attempted to kill numerous people that night as he brutally shot at bar patrons. Burns chose to confront the violent, armed suspect after witnessing him deliberately shoot and kill a man. When the suspect turned his gun from his victim toward Burns, it was a grave situation. Burns’ dedication is apparent in his choice to place himself at the risk of death to capture a dangerous killer and render aid to his victims.
Community Crime Prevention Specialist Rowena Holmes was awarded the Chief’s Award of Merit for her work in establishing the West Broadway Safety Center (WBSC). Holmes took the initiative to establish the WBSC as a site for collaborative community and police functions. She literally cleaned the place up and professionalized its services.
In June 2007 the WBSC had its official open house. Holmes’s work in gaining new community partners, expanding services, and providing expanded services were evident. She networked and gained new partners when other partners left. She was inclusive so everyone’s voice was heard and no one single entity dominated the others. The WBSC is now something which we can all be proud of; it is open 24 hours a day, fulfilling its mission to serve the citizens of the 4th Precinct.