Special to IFN

Statesville Police Department Cpl. Casey Hoover was presented the U.S. Attorney General’s Award for Exceptional Heroism during the 72nd Annual Attorney General’s Awards Ceremony on January 15.

U.S. Attorney General Merrick B. Garland presided over the ceremony, held in Washington, D.C., to honor the courageous actions of law enforcement professionals from across the nation.

Cpl. Hoover received the award alongside his colleagues on the Carolinas Regional Fugitive Task Force. The Award for Exceptional Heroism recognizes extraordinary acts of bravery and the willingness to risk one’s life while performing official duties.

The award honors the Carolinas Regional Fugitive Task Force, comprised of members from the U.S. Marshals Service Investigative Operations Division and partner agencies, for their service and bravery. Honorees include Senior Inspector Austin Acheson, Special Agent Arthur Philson, Task Force Officer William Elliott (Fallen), Task Force Officer Samuel Poloche (Fallen), Task Force Officer Josh Funderburk, Task Force Officer Frankie Runyon, Task Force Officer Casey Hoover, Task Force Officer Chad Shingler, Task Force Officer Frank Irizarry, Deputy U.S. Marshal Joshua Shuffler, Task Force Officer Collin Johnson, Senior Inspector Eric Tillman, Task Force Officer Samuel Laws, Deputy U.S. Marshal Thomas Weeks (Fallen), and Senior Inspector Derek Miller.

The award is in recognition of the task force members’ actions on April 29, 2024, in Charlotte, when they were engaged in the apprehension of a dangerous fugitive. The operation resulted in the loss of four courageous officers and injuries to Corporal Hoover and three others.

The families of the fallen heroes accepted the award on their behalf during the ceremony. Family members of Deputy U.S. Marshal Thomas Weeks, Task Force Officer William Elliott, and Task Force Officer Samuel Poloche received the Exceptional Heroism award. Joshua Eyer, a responding member of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department who lost his life in the incident, was honored with the Award for Excellence in Law Enforcement. His family accepted the award in his honor.

“Corporal Hoover’s commitment and bravery exemplify the highest standards of service and sacrifice,” said Statesville Police Chief David Onley. “This prestigious recognition is a testament to the courage and dedication of all who serve in law enforcement, especially those who risk their lives to ensure public safety. We are incredibly proud of Corporal Hoover and deeply grateful for his service.”