Police Officer of the Month

April 2003

PFC Mark Duncan was selected as police officer of the month for April 2003. In his most notable case of the month, he is credited with helping to save a woman’s life.

While traveling along Rt. 216 near I-95, PFC Duncan observed a woman lying in the median strip. He approached to investigate and discovered that the woman, still alive, had been stabbed. The victim had multiple injuries to the torso and legs, including fractures.

Witnesses at the scene reported that the woman had been thrown from a vehicle and then run over by the driver. At the time PFC Duncan discovered her, the woman was suffering from a collapsed lung. His quick action is credited with helping to save her life.

He applied an occlusive dressing to the victim’s chest wound until paramedics arrived. The victim was transported by Medivac to the Shock Trauma Center and survived her injuries.

During this harrowing incident, PFC Duncan not only administered first aid, he also talked with the victim and broadcasted a lookout for the suspect’s vehicle to area patrol cars. Through his efforts, a life was saved and the suspect was arrested.

Throughout April, PFC Duncan had many notable accomplishments. One of his arrests began as a disorderly subject at the T/A Truck Stop. The driver was arrested for driving while suspended and after resisting, was taken into custody. A search of the driver’s vehicle revealed a pair of brass knuckles and he was charged with both traffic and criminal charges. During the month, PFC Duncan made a total of three arrests for driving while suspended.

In another case, PFC Duncan discovered a stolen registration plate while conducting a routine computer check. He called out his location while continuing to follow the vehicle and waited for other units before initiating a traffic stop. The stop was conducted with preciseness and safety. The driver was taken into custody and gave statements that connected him to the stolen tags.

In a domestic assault case, PFC Duncan’s thorough investigation resulted in the arrest of an abusive husband, who was charged with assault.

In addition, PFC Duncan had five insight reports, handled seven collisions, made five misdemeanor arrests and four juvenile arrests. He had two arrests for driving under the influence, 79 traffic contacts, 20 foot patrols and made 104 business checks.

PFC Duncan’s efforts demonstrate his commitment to the Howard County Police Department. He is commended for his work and is deserving of this recognition.