Minneapolis Police Officer Jacob Spies Honored with Medal of Honor and Purple Heart
Minneapolis, MN — Officer Jacob Spies of the Minneapolis Police Department was recognized for his bravery and dedication to duty during a surprise ceremony outside City Hall. He was awarded the prestigious Medal of Honor and became the first recipient of the department’s Purple Heart. The ceremony took place on Thursday, honoring Officer Spies for his actions during a recent incident when he was shot and wounded in the line of duty.
Chief Brian O’Hara commended Officer Spies, stating, His dedication to duty in the face of extreme danger exhibits a character that should serve as a model to any police officer anywhere. He highlighted the fact that even seemingly routine assignments can instantly turn into terrifying situations for law enforcement professionals.
Officer Spies, a seven-year veteran of the force, sustained a gunshot wound to the shoulder while pursuing a group of robbery suspects in an unmarked police vehicle in the Northside area of the city. Chief O’Hara recounted the events leading up to the shooting, explaining that Officer Spies was working with the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office on an enforcement detail when he received a be on the lookout call for a Chevrolet Equinox involved in a violent robbery.
Approximately an hour later, Officer Spies spotted the same vehicle and began to tail it, calling for backup. As he approached the 4300 block of Colfax Avenue N., he found himself under an ambush-style attack and encountered automatic gunfire. Despite sustaining injuries, Officer Spies remained composed and relayed crucial information that led to the swift arrest of four suspects.
The Hennepin County Attorney’s Office subsequently charged a 19-year-old man with attempted murder and a 20-year-old woman as an accomplice in connection with the shooting. Officer Spies’ dedication and quick thinking played a significant role in bringing these suspects to justice.
During the ceremony, Chief O’Hara expressed his gratitude to Officer Spies for his selfless service and presented him with the Medal of Honor, expressing, Thank you for putting on your badge with honor – and for stepping into harm’s way as you work to stop violence. Officer Spies’ wife, Holly, and their 12-year-old daughter, Olivia, also attended the ceremony and thanked the MPD family for their unwavering support.
Holly emotionally shared her gratitude, stating, While what happened that night was borne out of evil, the journey we have been on so far has reinforced my faith in the goodness of people, community, and gratitude. Today, I have so much to be grateful for. Thank you for helping to bring my husband home.
The ceremony concluded with Officer Spies being embraced by a line of fellow officers, demonstrating the strong bond and camaraderie shared among law enforcement professionals. Officer Spies’ exemplary actions serve as a reminder of the sacrifices police officers make every day to protect their communities and ensure public safety.
Officer Jacob Spies is a true hero, embodying the very best of the law enforcement profession. His courage, resilience, and dedication to serving and protecting his community make him an outstanding role model for officers everywhere. The Minneapolis Police Department celebrates Officer Spies’ achievements and expresses gratitude for his service.
