By Sharon Aron Baron
A deputy with the Broward Sheriff’s Office in Tamarac was able to diffuse a difficult situation after a man holding knives threatened “suicide by cop.”
It happened on February 20, after Deputy Mitch Lyden responded to a residence after a distraught female called 911 dispatch.
When he arrived, he encountered a 29-year-old man inside and quickly shut the door. However, based on a female making the 911 call, he reopened the door and said he needed to check and make sure everyone was all right inside.
As Deputy Lyden entered, the man, holding two knives, raised them above his head. The deputy quickly drew his firearm and ordered him to drop them, which he did. However, after dropping the knives, the man said, “shoot me” several times.
After getting the man to sit down and talk, Deputy Lyden determined that he was extremely depressed and overwhelmed with his current situation.
BSO Tamarac District Captain Jeffrey Cirminiello said he was extremely pleased with the results of Deputy Lyden’s de-escalation response to this life and death encounter.
“His actions are a direct result of his professionalism and training in crisis intervention,” said Captain Cirminiello. “Deputy Lyden exemplifies the BSO Tamarac District’s mantra of professionalism and compassion.”
After a Baker Act was completed, the man was transported to University Hospital and Medical Center for treatment.
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