OHIO – In February, Trooper Matthew A. Perez was instrumental in rescuing a kidnapped woman. The Columbus Division of Police received a 911 call from a woman who reported her daughter’s ex-boyfriend had just fired shots into her home and kidnapped her daughter at gunpoint. As the Columbus Division of Police investigated, information was obtained indicating the suspect and victim were in Madison County. All Madison County law enforcement officers were provided with information to assist in locating the suspect’s vehicle. Trooper Perez located the suspect vehicle with the victim and her ex-boyfriend inside. Due to the imminent risk posed by the suspect, Trooper Perez was unable to wait for back-up and immediately took the suspect into custody. Trooper Perez found a loaded handgun near the driver’s seat of the vehicle and learned the victim had been injured. He secured the handgun and immediately called for medical assistance. For his life-saving actions, Trooper Perez was presented with the Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Certificate of Recognition today.
