FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 19, 2001

CONTACT: SID GAULDEN, 803-896-8755

DPS COMMISSIONED OFFICER OF THE YEAR

COLUMBIA – The South Carolina Department of Public Safety today named STP Officer First Class Andre Brisbon as the DPS Commissioned Officer of the Year at the agency’s annual Employee Recognition Ceremony.

Brisbon has been with the Department of Public Safety since February 1999. He initially worked with the Bureau of Protective Services Division but transferred to the State Transport Police Division in October 1999. STP is primarily responsible for enforcing state and federal laws governing commercial motor vehicles. Brisbon is certified as a DataMaster Alcohol Breath Instrument Operator, RADAR Operator, Commercial Vehicle Level One Inspection and Hazardous Materials Inspector. He has been recognized as Officer of the Quarter for STP.

On July 3, 2000, Brisbon was on duty at the I-26 weigh station near Charleston when he learned that there had been an armed robbery in the North Charleston area. Observing westbound traffic on I-26, he quickly spotted the suspect vehicle and began pursuit. During the more than 40-mile pursuit, the suspect fired shots at Brisbon, who was not injured. The suspect abandoned his vehicle, fled into a wooded area on foot and was apprehended a short time later. At least 11 charges have been brought against the suspect.

The following morning, July 4, Brisbon further distinguished himself. Stopping to tag an abandoned vehicle on I-26, he discovered a bound and gagged woman lying on the ground near the vehicle. He quickly freed the woman, assuring her that he was a police officer and that she would be alright. Recognizing the symptoms of shock, Brisbon called for EMS and wrapped her in a blanket. The woman, who had been kidnapped from an ATM, has recovered.

"Officer Brisbon gives much of himself to help others, both professionally and personally," said DPS Director B. Boykin Rose. "He is an extraordinary and notable credit to both the State Transport Police and the Department of Public Safety."

Brisbon was born in Brooklyn, NY, grew up in Philadelphia, Pa., and moved to Hartsville at the age of 17. He served in the United States Air Force as a Law Enforcement Specialist, receiving recognition several times for distinguished and meritorious service.

Brisbon and his wife, Angel, reside in Orangeburg. He devotes every other weekend to mentoring an 11-year-old boy.

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JB/5/2001

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