Massachusetts police detective who tackled alleged court attacker is honored: ‘Lives were protected’

A local police detective who tackled an alleged court attacker last month has been honored for helping court officers stop the assault Stoneham Police Det Chris Copan was presented with a letter of commendation at the town s annual Town Meeting for his actions at Woburn District Court on April A -year-old man that morning allegedly deployed pepper spray and assaulted people at the courthouse The Stoneham detective was in Woburn District Court at the time on police business The suspect was wearing tactical gear including a helmet and gas mask Copan reportedly rushed forward and tackled the suspect later identified as Nicholas Akerberg At that point several court officers helped as the man was taken into custody Several people who were in the lobby at the time were treated and issued from local hospitals following the case which was captured on court surveillance video The suspect was carrying eight pepper spray canisters and two smoke cannisters In that moment of dilemma Detective Copan made a split-second decision without knowing the full extent of the threat Police Chief James O Connor communicated Town Meeting When he intervened his courage professionalism and commitment to protecting others was on full display 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 Related Articles Ex-cop jailed in Mass Save kickback scheme Copan has served the population with the Stoneham Police Department since He has been a detective for about years Copan is also a U S Army 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 in 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 court case Akerberg was charged with six counts of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon five counts of assault and battery on a general employee two counts of assault and battery on a police officer assault disrupting a court proceeding disorderly conduct bomb threat and intimidation