Officer Commended for Stopping Armed Robbery in Progress

Contributed by the Town of Mount Pleasant

A Mount Pleasant police officer is being praised by town leaders for stopping an alleged armed robbery in progress.

At the June 11 Town Council meeting, Mount Pleasant Mayor Billy Swails and Mount Pleasant Town Council recognized Officer Gillespie as Employee of the Month for May 2013.

On May 7, at approximately 15 minutes after midnight, Officer Gillespie was conducting security checks of the businesses in his assigned area. While conducting his checks he heard loud voices coming from the area of Moultrie Middle School.

Officer Gillespie observed two men with their hands in the air while being confronted by three other men. Officer Gillespie immediately recognized this as an armed robbery in progress.

Officer Gillespie without hesitation confronted the robbers. All three suspects fled on foot and Officer Gillespie pursued them. Although he lost sight he was able to direct other units into the area and all three suspects were apprehended.

Officer Gillespie’s vigilance while on duty and his immediate and brave response helped put three violent criminals behind bars and prevented the two victims from being harmed during the robbery.

Below are the comments of a grateful resident, who wishes to remain anonymous:

“I was one of the two men robbed last night. 14 hours ago, I had a gun pointed at my face. First, I want to give a heartfelt thanks to Officer Gillespie of the MPPD.

The officer was on foot patrol (less than 200 feet away) and witnessed the entire assault. Without hesitation, he ran towards the suspects, yelling for them to drop their weapon. They instantly fled the scene.

I firmly believe that Officer Gillespie's alert attention to his surroundings and his instinctual bravery saved my life. I will be forever grateful to that young officer and his fearless duty.

This event has only strengthened my belief that Mount Pleasant is (and will remain) a great place to live. We have the lowest crime rate in the state. Despite last night’s event, I will continue to walk freely and bravely in my town. Small minded, weak, cowardly, common street thugs will NOT take my freedom or peace of mind.”