Leesburg Police officer Frank DeHaro was recognized by Police Chief Hunter Brisendine at the recent Leesburg Town council meeting.

Brisendine read a letter of accommodation for going above and beyond the call of duty during an incident in December, where officers lives were in danger.

Officer Deharo, a Marine Veteran, had been sworn in, but not yet attended the Academy, when on the night of December 14, of 2024 his actions may have saved the lives of fellow officers. Deharo found himself on the phone, dealing with a fellow veteran who may have been in the middle of a mental crisis. The suspect, had a history of mental illness and PTSD. The suspect was making threats to harm others, including his family and neighbors. He went on to state that he would ambush officers should they respond. The threat was not empty, as at a later time, it was discovered he indeed had been making explosive devices, and had the capability to carry out those threats.

Officer Deharo found a way to build report with the fellow Marine, and acted calmly and bravely. His ability to talk to the suspect, ended up with officers not having to enter a potentially deadly situation, as he was able to calm and talk the suspect down that night.

The suspect was arrest weeks later on a different offence, and at it was at that time, it was discurved that Officer Deharo’s instincts were correct, and the suspect was indeed a danger the night of the call to the officer. Officer Deharo’s actions that night, indeed may have saved lives.

Chief Brisendine went on to talk about officer Deharo’s potentional with the future of the Leesburg Police Department, and the valuable asset to the community he is expected to be.

You can hear the reading of the letter of accommodation here: