HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) — Two Huntsville Police officers were honored at an award ceremony in Washington, D.C. for their heroic work in August 2024.
Sgt. Kevin Lambert and Officer Jason Toney received national recognition at the 32nd annual TOP COPS Awards dinner on May 12 for their actions that helped save the lives of a woman and her two-year-old child during a hostage situation.
The event highlighted the critical decision-making and courage by both officers on Aug. 24, 2024, when a 911 call reported a woman and her toddler being held at gunpoint. As the standoff continued, Lambert encouraged the woman to run with her child when she had the chance.
As she ran for safety, the armed offender opened fire, hitting her twice. Toney, standing guard at the front entrance, returned fire and prevented further harm to the woman and her child.
“Sgt. Lambert and Officer Toney’s quick thinking, calm under pressure and bravery were pivotal in saving lives that day,” Huntsville Police Chief Kirk Giles said. “They exemplify the integrity and commitment we value in this department.”
The woman recovered from her physical injuries, but her emotional healing continues. In a gesture that speaks volumes about their compassion, Lambert and Toney have remained in contact with the family, even delivering Christmas presents to her and her child.
“This was an incredibly difficult and dangerous situation, but both officers didn’t hesitate,” Chief Giles said. “Their courage and dedication extend far beyond the call of duty, making them true Top Cops.”
The National Association of Police Organizations (NAPO) hosts the ceremony to honor officers from federal, state, county, tribal and local agencies nationwide who have demonstrated acts of bravery above and beyond the call of duty.
Lambert and Toney were selected as Top Cops by NAPO, an award given to only 10 law enforcement agencies nationwide. They were the only recipients from an Alabama agency, selected from hundreds of nominations submitted by fellow officers and reviewed by two national committees of law enforcement professionals.
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