KING CITY — Sgt. Anthony Shaw and Officer Cody Hughes from the King City Police Department have been awarded the Medal of Merit for their bravery and heroism following the investigation of an armed robbery incident last June.
Shaw and Hughes each received their medal — the department’s second-highest award — during a special presentation at the regularly scheduled King City Council meeting on Jan. 28.
“The Medal of Merit shall be awarded to those members who distinguish themselves by performing in stressful situations with exceptional tactics and/or judgement,” according to the KCPD Policy Manual, which defines the criteria for receiving such an honor. “The medal may be awarded to members who distinguish themselves by bravery or heroism above and beyond the normal demands of duty, but to a lesser degree than required for the Medal of Valor.”
During the investigation of an armed robbery in King City on June 3, 2024, Shaw broadcasted a “be on the lookout” for the suspect vehicle over the radio after it was identified. Greenfield police officers then located the vehicle traveling northbound on Highway 101 and attempted to stop it.
The suspect vehicle failed to stop and a pursuit began. Shaw eventually caught up to the pursuit and took over as the lead car, after which the vehicle finally yielded to officers just before the Front Street exit in Soledad.
A male adult suspect — later identified as 36-year-old Armando Garcia Rodriguez — exited the passenger side of the vehicle with a handgun in his hand. As he turned to flee on foot, he fired multiple rounds at Shaw, who was still in his vehicle. One of the rounds struck Shaw’s windshield.
Both Shaw and Hughes returned fire, “neutralizing the threat,” police said. First aid was provided to Rodriguez until fire and paramedic personnel arrived. He suffered non-life-threatening wounds and was transported to an area hospital for treatment.
Monterey County District Attorney’s Office filed 14 charges, including four counts of attempted murder, against Rodriguez. He is currently awaiting trial.
“Sergeant Shaw and Officer Hughes clearly distinguished themselves with their actions under stressful and life-threatening conditions,” stated KCPD. “For their actions, they were awarded the Medal of Merit. We thank them for their service and dedication to making our community a safer place.”
