OMAHA, NE – Congressman Don Bacon (NE-02) will be joined by Omaha Police Sergeant Jeff Kopietz at the State of the Union address in Washington, D.C. on January 30. Sgt. Kopietz is a 27-year veteran with the Omaha Police Department (OPD), where he has worked in the Uniform Patrol Bureau, Weed and Seed Squad, Narcotics and is currently assigned to the Fugitive Squad/Metro Fugitive Task Force. A 25-year veteran of OPD’s swat team, Sgt. Kopietz has served over 1,000 high risk search warrants during that time. He also is a deputized US Marshal.

“I have much respect for the work our law enforcement does every day and felt that honoring Sgt. Kopietz was a way to show my thanks for their dedication to our communities,” said Rep. Bacon. “Our first responders put their physical safety and lives on the line every day they go to work.”

Sgt. Kopietz was awarded the Medal of Valor for an event that took place on May 20, 2015.  On this date, he and Officer Kerrie Orozco were attempting to arrest a suspect wanted for a shooting when the suspect started firing his gun.  Sgt. Kopietz returned gunfire, killing the suspect. Unfortunately, Officer Orozco, a new mother, was killed.

“Sgt. Kopietz and many of his colleagues, have honored Officer Orozco by continuing her volunteer work. Not only are they protectors of the community, they are a part of the community,” added Rep. Bacon. “I am thrilled that Sgt. Kopietz is able to join me and represent law enforcement in Nebraska.”