Sgt. Jeff Kopietz from the Omaha Police Department received the “U.S. Marshals Law Enforcement Officer of the year award” from the Director of the U.S. Marshals Service, Donald Washington, at a ceremony in Washington, D.C., Thursday. Sgt. Kopietz is a team leader serving with the U.S. Marshals District of Nebraska’s Metro Fugitive Task Force.
Sgt. Kopietz has served thousands of violent felony arrest warrants during his career with both the Metro Fugitive Task Force and the Omaha Police SWAT Team.
Sgt. Kopietz’s decision making is sound, well thought-out, timely, and exceptionally reliable. He has a command of policy and case law that enables him to quickly and accurately assess tense and rapidly evolving situations and resolve it in the safest way possible. This was borne out on May 20, 2015, during the arrest of fugitive Marcus Wheeler, a violent known gang member with an extensive criminal history who was wanted for a shooting. Kopietz and members of the MFTF were conducting surveillance in preparation for an U.S. Marshals operation. While on surveillance, team members observed Wheeler walking outside and were confronted by gunfire from Wheeler, who was armed with a pistol and drum magazine. Kopietz exchanged gunfire with Wheeler and was able to stop the threat; however, in the gunfire, Officer Kerrie Orozco was struck and later died of her wounds. Sgt. Kopietz performed with bravery and valor during the incident.
U.S. Marshal for the District of Nebraska Scott Kracl said, “I have had the privilege of knowing Jeff for many years both personally and professionally. I have always respected his professional abilities, courage and honor, that is without question. What I personally appreciate even more and believe separates Officer Kopietz from others, is his character, honesty and integrity, not only on the job but in his personal life as well. I’ve spent many hours with him and have seen firsthand his loyalty to his family, friends and colleagues. He will always be remembered for being a great cop, but more importantly he’s just a good person.”
The Law Enforcement Officer of the year award is presented to a state, local or federal law enforcement official outside the U.S. Marshals Service who has made a significant contribution to the mission of the Marshals Service. This recognition may be for either a specific act or service or for assistance and cooperation with the Marshals Service over a period of time.
U.S. Marshals Director Donald Washington, Sgt. Jeff Kopietz, and U.S. Marshals Deputy Director Derrick Driscoll at the awards ceremony Thursday