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Recognizing and honoring Philadelphia Police Officer Jesse Hartnett for exhibiting undeniable bravery, resilience and dedication to protecting the City of Philadelphia in the face of mortal danger.
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WHEREAS, The Council of the City of Philadelphia is pleased and proud to honor Police Officer Jesse Hartnett, a four-year veteran in the 18th Police District; and
WHEREAS, On the evening of January 7, 2016 at approximately 11:30 p.m., at or around the corner of 60th and Spruce Streets in West Philadelphia, a gunman stormed the officer’s marked patrol car and unloaded a gun at Officer Hartnett; and
WHEREAS, Despite being shot in the left arm multiple times, Officer Hartnett demonstrated his valor and courage by radioing for help, stepping out of his patrol car, and successfully chasing down and shooting the assailant, Edward Archer, who was apprehended a block away by responding officers; and
WHEREAS, The assailant believing that the police defend laws that are contrary to the teachings of the Quran stated, “I follow Allah. I pledge my allegiance to the Islamic State and that’s why I did what I did”; and
WHEREAS, In consideration of the City of Philadelphia’s founding principles of religious freedom and tolerance, Mayor James F. Kenney said the shooting had nothing to do with Islam and that this does not represent the religion in any shape or in any form or any of the teachings; and
WHEREAS, Police Officer Hartnett who miraculously survived the attack, sustained injuries to his arm and nerves which will require multiple surgeries; and
WHEREAS, We echo Police Commissioner Ross’ comments, that it was Officer Hartnett’s will to live that undoubtedly saved his life and we are ever so thankful that he is here today; now, therefore,be it
RESOLVED, THAT THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, Hereby recognizes and honors Philadelphia Police Officer Jesse Hartnett for exhibiting undeniable bravery, resilience and dedication to protecting the City of Philadelphia in the face of mortal danger. and
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Philadelphia Police Officer Jesse Hartnett as a sincere expression of the Council of the City of Philadelphia’s gratitude, admiration and recognition.
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