Knoxville Mayor Bill Haslam and Police Chief Sterling Owen named Officer Brandon Wardlaw the Knoxville Police Department's Officer of the Month for July. Officer Wardlaw has been with the department since January 2007.

Chief Owen said that between June 14, 2010, and July 21, 2010, approximately seven restaurants were robbed by a black male suspect armed with a sawed-off shotgun. On July 21 officers responded to a robbery of an individual in the parking lot of the Green Hills Apartments. The description of the suspect matched the description of the suspect committing the restaurant robberies.

Chief Owen said, "Officer Wardlaw was able to develop information that identified the possible suspect. Coordinating efforts with investigators from the Violent Crimes Unit, a canvass of the area was initiated but the suspect could not be located."

The next day Officer Wardlaw continued to develop information on the whereabouts of the suspect. With assistance from east and west district officers, investigators, and the Repeat Offenders Squad, Officer Wardlaw located and apprehended the suspect without incident.

Chief Owen said, "Officer Wardlaw consistently displays not only a strong work ethic and drive, but also the desire and ability to build relationships in the community. It is these relationships that are critical in keeping our community safe."

Mayor Haslam said, "Officer Wardlaw showed outstanding initiative and investigative skill in locating and apprehending this violent serial robber. Congratulations on a job well done."

Suspect:
Anthony Dewayne Brabson
DOB: 5-1-87
Charges: Aggravated Robbery (to an individual)
Theft
Additional charges are likely in the near future.