Mayor Bill Haslam and Police Chief Sterling Owen today named Officer Joshua McAlister the Officer of the Month for August 2005. Officer McAlister has been with the Knoxville Police Department since December 2002.

Chief Owen said that on August 8, 2005 at approximately 10:08 p.m., officer McAlister was passing by the Car Wash located at 3924 Linden Avenue when he observed suspicious activity from the middle bay. A male was standing near the coin operating machine were it appeared he was attempting to break into the device. Officer McAlister turned his vehicle around and pulled into the car wash. The suspect's vehicle fled from the car wash at a high rate of speed. Officer McAlister followed and conducted a traffic stop on the Chevrolet Astro Van.

While talking to the occupants of the van, McAlister observed loose quarters and burglary tools in plain site inside the van. Officer McAlister called for backup and proceeded to separate the individuals for questioning. During the questioning, the suspects admitted to breaking into the car wash coin machines. The three individuals were arrested and placed into custody.

Chief Owen said, "By being extremely observant while on routine patrol, Officer McAlister was able to stop a crime in progress. Due to his actions, three suspects were arrested and were prevented from victimizing additional businesses."

Mayor Haslam said, "We are grateful for Officer McAlister's continued dedication to his job and to the citizens of our community. Officer McAlister is deserving of this special award."

The three suspects arrested are Amy Stafford, John Edward Heiser, and Kenneth Lee Hubbard.

The three suspects arrested were each charged with Felony Vandalism,
Misdemeanor Theft under $500.00, and Possession of Burglary Tools. All three suspects had prior convictions for burglary.

Officer McAlister will receive a signed certificate from the Mayor and Chief along with a free dinner from Bayou Bay Seafood House.