Knoxville Mayor Bill Haslam and Police Chief Sterling Owen today honored three Knoxville Police Department Chaplains for their response to an individual who was victimized while traveling through Knoxville. The Chaplains honored include Chaplain Mike Patty, Chaplain Gerald King, and Chaplain Pamela Neal.
Chief Owen said that on Saturday, August 27, at approximately 2:00 p.m., Chaplain Patty was asked to respond to Baptist Hospital West to help assist KPD Officer Dana Crocker. Officer Crocker indicated that a 25 year-old male traveling from Daytona Beach, Florida to Washington D.C. had been assaulted and robbed of all his cash, approximately $200.00, and his credit cards. The victim, who is deaf, was preparing to attend college in Washington D.C.
Chaplain Patty, through an interpreter, was able to assess the victim's need. It was at this point that Chaplain Patty enlisted the aid of Chaplain King and Chaplain Neal. The Chaplains were able to provide a room and meal for the victim. Chaplain Neal provided a $50.00 gas card for the victim while Chaplain King was able to secure an additional $150.00 in cash for further travel expenses.
Chief Owen said, "This is an example of the tremendous dedication of our Knoxville Police Department Chaplains and the ability of our chaplains to bring the Knoxville community together for that which is good."
Mayor Haslam added, "These chaplains made a tremendous difference on the life of one individual and his attitude toward the City of Knoxville. We commend these Chaplains as well as the entire Knoxville Police Department Chaplain Corps for their continued service to the Knoxville community."
Each Chaplain will receive a signed certificate from the Mayor and the Chief.