Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Safety Police Award topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
LAPD Officer Joseph Dahl honored with Purple Heart after hospital de‑escalation arrest
Summary
Officer Joseph Dahl received a Purple Heart for his role in a hospital arrest that officers say was de‑escalated without use of significant force. Family members attended the presentation.
Officer Joseph Dahl received a Purple Heart after an incident at a hospital in which officers say they de‑escalated an encounter with a man who alleged he had a firearm.
The award was presented during a city event; department accounts say officers found a man who repeatedly stated he had a gun and kept his arm behind his back. According to Dahl, he and his partner sought to protect patients, staff and the suspect while keeping force to a minimum and taking the man into custody.
“Could've turned into a deadly situation, but we were able to deescalate the situation and take him into custody without, using much force,” Officer Joseph Dahl said. He described balancing the safety of hospital patients, staff and the suspect as “very dynamic.”
Dahl said the recognition is meaningful both professionally and personally. “For the career, it's great. It's nice to be recognized by the department. It is just we did our job,” he said, adding that it was especially meaningful that his two children were present to see the award.
At the event, speakers praised the work of officers and encouraged community confidence in calling the Los Angeles Police Department when needed.
No formal city action or policy change was reported in connection with the award presentation.
