Detective Karli Travis of the Middletown Police Department in Connecticut was recently celebrated for her bravery during a special ceremony, receiving the prestigious Courage in Service Award at the National Law Enforcement Officer Hall of Fame induction.
Detective Travis’s recognition comes after her life-saving actions during a harrowing officer-involved shooting last year.
The National Law Enforcement Officer Hall of Fame, a renowned nonprofit organization dedicated to commemorating the valor and sacrifices of law enforcement officers, added Detective Travis to its ranks alongside seven other inductees in the ceremony.
The Middletown Police Department, in a public statement, expressed its pride for Detective Travis’s selfless actions.
“She is recognized for her bravery and heroism for an officer-involved shooting that saved her life and the lives of others last year,” the department stated.
Middletown Police Chief Erik Costa also praised Detective Travis for her exemplary conduct and swift action in the face of imminent danger.
“Det. Travis has held herself to a high standard of integrity, dedication, and excellence,” Chief Costa remarked. “Her split-second decision to protect her community and herself goes without question. We are all thankful for the support of Det. Travis, and her induction into the Hall of Fame stands as a testament to her unwavering commitment to service as a Middletown Police Officer.”
The incident that led to Detective Travis’s recognition took place on the morning of August 12, when she responded to a disturbance call at a multi-family residence on Liberty Street.
Upon her arrival, Detective Travis encountered Winston Tate, a 52-year-old man armed with a hammer.
Despite multiple commands to disarm, Tate charged at Travis, resulting in a physical confrontation that was captured on her body camera.
The footage revealed the intense struggle, during which Travis discharged her weapon multiple times in defense, ultimately subduing Tate, who was later apprehended and faces assault charges.
Detective Travis, injured in the altercation, received medical treatment and has since recovered.
The Connecticut Office of Inspector General has since launched an investigation into the shooting.
This recognition marks the second consecutive year a Connecticut officer has been honored by the National Law Enforcement Officer Hall of Fame, following Bristol officer Alec Iurato’s induction in 2023 for his response to a deadly ambush attack.
