An area police detective who tackled an alleged courtroom attacker final month has been honored for serving to courtroom officers cease the assault.
Stoneham Police Det. Chris Copan was offered with a letter of commendation on the city’s annual City Assembly for his actions at Woburn District Court docket on April 14.
A 28-year-old man that morning allegedly deployed pepper spray and assaulted individuals on the courthouse.
The Stoneham detective was in Woburn District Court docket on the time on police enterprise. The suspect was sporting tactical gear, together with a helmet and fuel masks.
Copan reportedly rushed ahead and tackled the suspect, later recognized as Nicholas Akerberg. At that time, a number of courtroom officers helped as the person was taken into custody.
A number of individuals who had been within the foyer on the time had been handled and launched from native hospitals following the incident, which was captured on courtroom surveillance video.
The suspect was carrying eight pepper spray canisters and two smoke cannisters.
“In that moment of crisis, Detective Copan made a split-second decision without knowing the full extent of the threat,” Police Chief James O’Connor informed City Assembly. “When he intervened, his braveness, professionalism, and dedication to defending others was on full show.
“Because of his quick and decisive actions, the suspect was subdued, lives were protected, and what could have been a much more devastating event was brought under control,” the police chief added.
Copan has served the neighborhood with the Stoneham Police Division since 2000. He has been a detective for about 10 years. Copan can be a U.S. Military veteran.
“Police officers accept the reality that they may be called upon at any moment to face unpredictable and life-threatening situations,” O’Connor wrote within the letter of commendation. “Detective Copan’s actions reflect the highest standards of law enforcement, demonstrating exceptional bravery, sound judgment, and a deep commitment to the safety of others. His conduct brought both local and national acclaim to the Stoneham Police Department and serves as a proud example of the professionalism and valor embodied by its officers.”
Following the courtroom incident, Akerberg was charged with six counts of assault and battery with a harmful weapon, 5 counts of assault and battery on a public worker, two counts of assault and battery on a police officer, assault, disrupting a courtroom continuing, disorderly conduct, bomb menace, and intimidation.
