Staff Report
KYLE — The Kyle Police Department is celebrating two officers after they were recognized with honors during the Hays County Sheriff’s Office Awards Ceremony Tuesday, Sept. 23.
Sergeant Cleary received the Medal of Valor for his bravery during a high-risk Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) call. The incident began as a welfare concern for a mother and child, but further investigation revealed the mother had been assaulted by her husband, who was determined an immediate threat to the family, according to KPD. In a coordinated hostage rescue, Cleary rescued the child from the home and away from a dangerous situation.
Corporal Waters received two Sheriff’s Appreciation Awards for separate incidents. In the first, he responded to a violent attack that escalated into an armed and barricaded suspect. Working with a team of crisis negotiators, Corporal Waters helped facilitate the suspect’s voluntary surrender without further escalation. During the second incident, Corporal Waters encountered a combat veteran in the midst of a severe mental health crisis, marked by extreme paranoia and emotional instability, stated a KPD news release, and through rapport-building, he gained the individual’s trust and guided the situation to a safe and peaceful resolution.
“These awards are a true testament to the professionalism, courage and dedication of our officers,” said KPD Chief Jeff Barnett. “Because of their swift and heroic actions, lives were saved and extremely dangerous situations were safely resolved.”
The awards highlight the commitment of Kyle police officers to public safety. The entire department extends its congratulations to Sergeant Cleary and Corporal Waters for their exemplary service, the release stated.
