The Arlington Police Department was recognized on Tuesday, September 11, 2018, in the State Capitol by Texas Governor Greg Abbott. Two APD Officers received the prestigious Star of Texas Award in Austin. This distinguished award honors Peace Officers, Firefighters and Emergency Medical First Responders who are seriously injured or killed in the line of duty.
Corporal William Brewer and Officer Carla Strauser received the award in a ceremony at the Texas House of Representatives Chamber. Corporal Brewer was a member of the APD SWAT team that was executing a narcotics search warrant at a home on October 31, 2017. As the door was breached, Corporal Brewer was the first officer to enter the location and immediately took fire from a suspect armed with an AR-15 rifle. Corporal Brewer was shot multiple times by the suspect. He is continuing to recover from his injuries and has returned to a limited duty status with the department.
Officer Strauser was investigating a vehicle crash on June 24, 2006, when she was injured by specialized equipment contained on a truck. A hook attached to a cable struck Officer Strauser on the back of the head with significant force, causing her to fall forward. She was rushed to the hospital and after an eight-month recovery, has returned to full duty with the department.
"I am extremely proud of the heroic efforts and commitment to service that is exemplified by these officers who were injured in the line of duty," said Arlington Police Chief Will Johnson. "There are inherent risks that our officers face while patrolling our streets and responding to calls yet these officers continue to serve despite the risk of personal injury."
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