On July 16, 2007, shortly before 2:00 p.m., Aaron Snyder entered the west door of the Colorado State Capitol Building and headed toward the temporary offices of Governor Bill Ritter, Jr. Trooper Hemphill was assigned to the Governor’s Protection Detail with the Executive Security Unit, and on duty at the time, intercepted Snyder in the reception area. Diplomatically and cleverly engaging him in a discussion, he learned the individual was disquieting and challenging. Seriously concerned by Snyder’s behavior, Trooper Hemphill made a 10-78 emergency alert from his radio (emergency—officer needs help). Snyder unexpectedly drew a large firearm from his tuxedo coat, and at the same time Trooper Hemphill warned him to stop or he would shoot. When Snyder ignored the commands and moved towards him, Trooper Hemphill fired four shots. Trooper Hemphill’s actions demonstrated his keen ability in making life-threatening decisions and potentially saved the life of the governor of Colorado and everyone else in the building at the time.
For this effort, Trooper Hemphill was among four finalists from state and provincial agencies across the United States and Canada for the 2007 IACP/Motorola Trooper of the Year award.
Learn more about the Colorado State Patrol at: http://www.colorado.gov/cs/Satellite/StatePatrol-Main/CBON/1251592908196