Police Officer of the Month

January 2006

Chief Livesay has selected P/O Thomas Trodden as the Officer of the Month for January. Officer Trodden, recently transferred from working night shift in the northern district, became well acclimated to his new position very quickly. Assigned to the Oakland Mills area as C11 and C12, P/O Trodden’s proactive efforts left an indelible impression on the community. Officer Trodden completed more than 20 foot patrols in Oakland Mills neighborhoods and the Rt. 29 footbridge. By the month’s end, Trodden led his squad in arrests, number of incidents handled and traffic contacts. Specifically, P/O Trodden made 56 traffic contacts and 11 arrests, including one daytime DUI.

During one notable incident, Trodden responded to a fight call and stopped a suspicious vehicle. The field contact and K9 scan produced a police baton, a 14” knife, suspected marijuana and a loaded, 12 gauge shotgun which was previously taken in a home invasion. This quick response prevented a potential tragedy, as post-arrest interviews determined the group was en route to seek retribution for an earlier altercation. This remarkable action both prevented a possible homicide and helped clear an active robbery case. Officer Trodden’s self-initiated activity, consistency of effort and dedication to duty has earned him this auspicious award. Congratulations Officer Thomas Trodden!