Nov. 2024. Blues Vol 40 No. 11

aerial video and

aerial video and information, WRAL reported. The drone, stationed on the roof of the BPD Headquarters, can arrive at emergency scenes within three minutes, offering a safer and more informed response for officers and the community, according to the report. Master Police Officer Matthew Cook, who operates the drone, highlighted its role in enhancing safety by giving officers a clear view of situations before arriving. “That way [officers] are not going into a scene blind. They know what’s going on,” Cook told WRAL. Assistant Chief Josh Light explained that the drone, which launched three months ago, has already proven effective, recalling a recent incident where it tracked a fleeing suspect through a house—something that would have been difficult on the ground. “Normally officers would not even see the individual jump from that window,” Light said. Given the success of the program, the department plans to add a second drone by Thanksgiving, according to the report. The drones, costing roughly ,000 each, are funded through asset forfeiture money. TEXAS MAN RECEIVES OUT- POURING OF SUPPORT AF- TER OFFICERS DE-ESCALATE APPARENT ‘SUICIDE-BY-COP’ ATTEMPT By Joanna Putman, Police1 MADISONVILLE, TX. — A year of personal tragedy for a Madison County man named Mike has taken a turn for the better, thanks to the support of local law enforcement and the community, KBTX reported. Mike, who lost his wife to dementia in 2023, struggled with grief, isolation and the deteriorating state of his home. After his wife’s death, his home fell into disrepair and a freeze caused his water pipes to burst, leaving him without running water for months, according to the report. Facing loneliness and despair, Mike attempted suicide by cop last month. Chief Deputy Curtis Klingle, with the Madison County Sheriff’s Office, responded and spent hours talking with Mike, ultimately de-escalating the situation and helping him receive the care he needed, according to the report. Klingle described the situation as “abject despair,” but fortunately, it ended without tragedy. Following the incident, the community came together to help Mike. A Facebook post by Madison County Sheriff’s Office investigator Carly Foster ignited a wave of support, with people offering groceries, home repairs and even restoring Mike’s water supply. Businesses and volunteers contributed time and resources to fix Mike’s home, provide essential supplies and offer him a fresh start, according to the report. “When people heard his story, and it was so neat to watch, it really restored my faith in humanity,” Foster said. “We don’t see a lot of good in people in this line of work. So seeing that outpouring was very cool.” Mike now has running water, new appliances and furniture. He has also received a donated vehicle, currently undergoing repairs. Foster continues to assist Mike with daily needs and his story has raised awareness about the struggles faced by elderly residents living in isolation, according to the report. The community hopes that others will be inspired to check in on neighbors who may need support. Mike expressed his gratitude for the help he’s received: “I praise God every day I wake up. I couldn’t ask for a better life right now.” America needs more citizens like those in the Madisonville Texas community. 60 The Blues - November ‘24

The Blues - November ‘24 61