The Bradenton Beach Police Department’s Devon Straight took home the city’s “Officer of Year” award, presented April 7 by Chief John Cosby.
Straight is no stranger to accolades on the job. He also earned the honor in 2019.
Cosby, addressing the city commission, praised Straight for his role in the 2021 arrest of a Bradenton resident for two carjackings at Coquina Beach.
“I am here tonight to honor Officer Devon Straight,” Cosby said. “He is our 2021 Officer of the Year. On Aug. 12, 2021, Officer Straight responded quickly to two attempted carjackings in progress. Upon arrival, Officer Straight arrested and secured the suspect.”
Cosby said Straight’s quick action during the arrest and attention to detail during the investigation led to the conviction of the man, including a sentence of 12 years in prison for an attempted carjacking with a deadly weapon and aggravated battery with a deadly weapon.
Straight received a plaque and a round of applause from commissioners and meeting attendees.