(Roanoke) — Three Danville Police officers were honored this week with the highest award from a state group.
The Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police presented their Award for Valor to Sgt. Clarence Goins, Officer Seth Parker, and Officer Nicholas Smithers.
Back in January Danville Police were called to the 500 block of Apollo Avenue near Westwood Middle School. Callers said a man who had been fired from a nearby business was armed and being disruptive. Police found 24-year old Nicholas Beddoo in the school’s parking lot.
For 25 minutes, they tried to negotiate with Beddoo, who said he was armed and suicidal. Police say Beddoo pulled a gun from his waistband and fired it away from them. Police ordered him to drop the weapon. They say Beddoo turned and pointed the gun at them. Officers then opened fire. They gave first aid before the Danville Life Saving Crew arrived and took Beddoo was taken to the hospital.
Goins has served with the Danville Police Department for 21 years. Parker has five years on the force—Smithers is in his second year.
Also, Danville Police Sergeant Jacob Amos and Officer Isaiah Rossier were honored with the Award for Lifesaving for their administration of first aid to the suspect.