Holmes Beach has a low crime rate and violent crimes are rare.
However, in the line of duty, police officers are taught to expect the unexpected.
In March 2014, Holmes Beach Police Officer Steve Ogline responded to a domestic disturbance report. He was told someone was being injured and blood was all over the place.
He was flagged down by a man when he arrived to the scene. The man was yelling that a woman was being “stabbed to death” in an upstairs apartment.
“Without hesitation, Officer Ogline entered the residence as backup officers were arriving. When he entered the residence, he heard a female yelling, ‘help me,’” Holmes Beach Police Chief Bill Tokajer said.
Ogline followed the sound of the woman’s voice and found her in the bathroom. She was in the bathtub and man was on top of her. There was a knife protruding from the woman’s neck.
Ogline held the man at gunpoint, ordering him to get up. He then arrested the man.
“Officer Ogline’s swift and brave actions certainly saved the life of the female and possibly others on scene during the incident,” said Tokajer.
The victim was treated and released from the hospital.
In January, Tokajer nominated Ogline for recognition by the 16th District Congressional Law Enforcement Awards. Ogline will receive an award for “actions above and beyond the call of duty” and “Congressional Law Enforcement Officer of the Year.”
He will be honored during a ceremony at 5:30 p.m. Friday, April 17, in the Sarasota County Commission Chambers, 1660 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota.
“As chief of police, I recognize that all of our officers do an extremely dangerous job and do it well every day. It gives me great pleasure that he can be recognized by others,” Tokajer said.
Ogline was hired in June 2013. He previously served and retired from the Manatee County Sheriffs Office after 25 years of service.
He saved my life!! Even after I was released from the hospital he would drive by to keep an out on me and even come in and see how I was recovering!! So thankful for Deputy Ogline!