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U.S. Capitol Police Officer Named Officer of the Year by The National Exchange Club

June 10, 2009
United States Capitol PoliceChief Phillip D. Morse, Sr
Public Information Office
119 D Street, NE
Washington, D.C. 20510Immediate
(202) 224-1677

The National Exchange Club is a service organization that promotes national pride and provides varying community services via local clubs across the United States. Each year, as a part of the organization’s crime and fire prevention community service activities, the local Exchange Club recognizes a law enforcement officer who has shown outstanding performance of duty with its prestigious Officer of the Year award. The individual who receives this award must display exemplary service, excellence in police duties, or perform an act of service displaying heroism at the risk to personal safety.

I am honored to announce that this year’s Exchange Club Officer of the Year is Officer Angel Mencia. Officer Mencia, who is assigned to the House Division, was nominated for this award by the USCP in recognition of his actions to maintain the security of the Capitol Complex in the face of an armed suspect.

On September 5, 2008, while assigned to the Truck Interdiction Program (TIPS), Officer Mencia was flagged down by a motorist asking for directions to the Library of Congress. As Mencia approached the vehicle, he noticed a rifle case in the back seat. Officer Mencia asked the motorist if there was a rifle in the case and the motorist advised him that there was. Officer Mencia immediately removed the motorist from the vehicle and secured the weapon. Further investigation revealed several rounds of ammunition and a grenade containing black powder in the vehicle. The suspect was arrested and additional weapons were removed from the defendant’s residence after a search warrant was issued.

The quick and decisive actions of Officer Mencia led to an arrest of a perpetrator who committed a serious crime by possessing weapons and an explosive device on Capitol Grounds. There is no doubt that Officer Mencia’s attention to duty and utilization of excellent police skills prevented the possible loss of lives and serious injury.

Please join me in congratulating Officer Angel Mencia. His exceptional service exemplifies the values of our Department:

Unflinching - Sincere - Courteous - Principled.

If there are any questions about these events or security procedures, you may contact the United States Capitol Police Public Information Office at 202-224-1677.

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Prepared by:
Sergeant Kimberly Schneider
United States Capitol Police
Public Information Officer