Milton Officer Receives 2014 Officer Robert P. Dana Award

Norfolk District Attorney Michael W. Morrissey conferred a 2014 Officer Robert P. Dana Award for meritorious police work to Officer Christopher Potts during Law Day ceremonies at Quincy District Court on Friday.

“Metropolitan Police Officer Dana was shot and killed by a suspect who had gained control of another officer’s weapon during a traffic stop on March 25, 1984,” District Attorney Morrissey said. “He had been an officer for 8 years and had arrived at the stop to assist another officer. The award recognizes exemplary police work, but also recognizes the valor associated with stepping into harm’s way not once, but as a way of life.”

Officer Christopher Potts was nominated for his actions during two separate motor vehicle stops, one in April and one in June. In each case, Officer Potts maintained a constant observation of the passenger in the car even while questioning the driver.

“During both stops, Officer Potts’ training and experience caused him to become wary of the movements of the passenger. And in each case, that passenger would allegedly grab for an illegal gun in his waistband and struggle with officers before being subdued,” District Attorney Morrissey said.

“More important than getting two stolen handguns off the streets of Milton, the actions and observations of Officer Potts may in fact be the reason that two of his fellow officers and himself remain on the streets of Milton, unharmed and reporting for duty,” Morrissey said.

Pictured above: From left, Quincy District Court First Justice Mark Coven, Officer Christopher Potts, District Attorney Michael W. Morrissey, Supreme Judicial Court Justice Margot Botsford and Police Chief Richard Wells, Jr. visited the judge’s chambers following the award presentation.