First of all, I would like to thank all the citizens who called us and gave us information that would enable us to complete this matter 10 minutes after the first call. I would then like to congratulate Sergeant Yarenko and his entire shift, along with our Dispatchers, for responding and ending this so quickly. This man admitted to being under the influence of drugs and is very fortunate that a citizen or officer did not have to use deadly force for his own safety.

To everyone who has argued with me over the years about drugs being a victimless crime and criticized law enforcement for enforcing drug laws.

Families who suffered property damage in Camden Cove and those who were terrorized by the incident disagree. The suspect could easily have been a victim of his own choices this morning. Our officer is very fortunate to have the opportunity to safely deploy his stun gun to keep him under control long enough to apply handcuffs. I also see the damage drug use does to users’ families. They are also victims.

I can’t emphasize enough how proud I am to work with true professionals. We at Calera Police Department make no apologies for enforcing the law, but we also care about individuals (including suspects) and their well-being. Many of us, myself included, don’t go to work knowing that we might have to deal with something like this and make a split-second decision that could save or end a life.

Chief Hyche