Council and police chief thank community after officer ambushed; officer recovering

At the start of the Sept. 7 meeting, council members and the police chief addressed a shooting that occurred the prior Thursday involving an officer who was ambushed while trying to care for an individual in custody. Council members offered thanks and prayers for Officer Jimmy Sanchez and for the city's first responders.

"We're grateful that Officer Sanchez is recovering," Mayor Dionne Adams said, and invited the chief to add remarks. Chief Stavanger described the outpouring of community support since the incident, referenced previous officers shot in the line of duty during his career, and thanked city staff and medical personnel who assisted. The chief said the department was "proud to stand here once again" and emphasized the seriousness of the work done by officers.

Council members and residents reiterated support for the police department and for the officer and his family during the meeting.