Omaha Sgt. returns home from DC Awards

OMAHA - Omaha Police Sargent Jeff Kopietz was honored as the nation's Law Enforcement Officer of the Year on Thursday in Washington DC.

The US Marshals present the award to a state, local, or federal law enforcement official who they say has made a significant contribution to the Marshals Service.

Kopietz serves with the US Marshals District of Nebraska's Metro Fugitive Task Force.

A release from the Marshals' Office cited Kopietz's actions in May 2015, when he exchanged gunfire with fugitive Marcus Wheeler during his arrest.

He was able to stop the threat; however, Officer Kerrie Orozco was struck and later died of her wounds.

Sargent Kopietz has served thousands of felony arrest warrants during his career.