Crime & Safety

Off-Duty Detective Battles Home Fire, Merits Performance Award

The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office recognizes Detective John Masson for putting his own safety in jeopardy to ensure that no one was inside a house on fire.

 

For Detective John Masson, the work day was done but his duty took precedence, as he kicked down the door of a burning house to ensure that no one was at home or needed assistance.

For his efforts, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office awarded the detective the “Distinguished Performance Award” for the fourth quarter of 2011.

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According to Col. James Previtera, who announced the award at the office’s Awards Recognition Ceremony on Dec. 14, Masson was on his way home when he spotted a house on fire.

He placed a call for help, then knocked on doors to determine if anyone was at home.

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“Detective Masson received no response and decided to enter the home by kicking the door in,” according to Previtera’s prepared remarks. “Once inside he searched for people who might be trapped or overcome by the thick smoke.”

Satisfied there were no occupants inside, Masson reportedly then left the home and used a garden hose to dose the fire until Hillsborough County Fire Rescue arrived on the scene.

According to Previtera, the homeowner “later contacted the sheriff’s office and expressed his appreciation for the actions of Detective Masson.”

His call to action off the clock, Previtera added, “exemplifies his willingness to go beyond the call of duty, even when placing his own life in jeopardy.”


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