NORWICH - The City of Norwich Police Department is proud to announce that Officers King and Laughlin have been recognized with the Heroic Action Award for their extraordinary bravery and quick thinking in the line of duty.

On April 24, 2024, Officers King and Laughlin responded to trespass in progress where it was later determined the caller had called the 911 center to report the trespass attempting to set the officers up for an ambush, suicide by cop. Demonstrating exceptional courage, the officers were able to safely arrest the principle, after he attacked the officers with a chef knife, risking their own safety to protect and save lives.

Their actions exemplify the highest standards of law enforcement and reflect the core values of service, integrity, and selflessness.

“We are incredibly proud of Officers King and Laughlin,” said Chief Roach, Chief of the City of Norwich Police Department. “Their courage and commitment to protecting our community are a powerful reminder of the dedication and heroism our officers display every day.”

The Heroic Action Award is presented to officers who demonstrate outstanding bravery in the face of imminent danger. Officers King and Laughlin’s actions not only saved lives but also inspired their colleagues and the community they serve.

A formal award ceremony was held on Monday, April 7, 2025, at Central New York Association of Chief of Police, Annual Awards Banquet, in Syracuse, NY, where department command staff, and community members gathered to honor their heroic efforts.

-Information from the NPD