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Fallen Independent Ofc. Cody Allen among those named Officer of the Year
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Fallen Independent Ofc. Cody Allen among those named Officer of the Year

RIVERSIDE, Mo. — Law enforcement officers from across the Kansas City bi-state area were recognized for their service Thursday during the Metropolitan Chiefs and Sheriffs Association Valor Awards ceremony.

Fallen Independent Ofc. Cody Allen was awarded Officer of the Year, along with Officers Steven Thompson and Luke Buchanan. All three were shot when they responded to a shooting at a home in Independence on Feb. 29.

Jackson County process server Drexel Mack was assisting with a final eviction notice when he was shot.

Responding officers did not know Mack’s condition, so they attempted a rescue.

“Cover me and I’ll save … let’s go,” Allen said, according to officials.

Civil Process Server Drexel Mack and Officer Cody Allen

Melissa Mairs King/KSHB

Jackson County Civil Process Server Drexel Mack and Ofc. Cody Allen was killed in a shooting Thursday in northeast Independence.

As Allen tried to pull Mack to safety, the suspect shot Allen from inside the home. Both Allen and Mack died.

The Valor Awards ceremony was emotional as Allen, Thompson and Buchanan were recognized; people wiped their tears and the audience gave a standing ovation.

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John Batten/KSHB

Independence Police Chief Adam Dustman

“I draw my inspiration and determination to do the best job possible for the community we serve from days like today, from the action of these officers,” said Independence Police Chief Adam Dustman.

Buchanan suffered a gunshot wound to the stomach and Thompson’s arm was crushed by a bullet. Both made a full recovery and returned to work.

“While I would understand if this is no longer the profession for them, I can’t say I’m surprised to see them out there serving our community,” Dustman said.

Allen’s wife, Danielle, was at the ceremony to accept the award on his behalf. Those who knew him say he would be proud.

“Even though he’d be embarrassed to be publicly recognized today, I’m sure he’s up there laughing and I know he’d be honored too,” Dustman said.

KSHB 41 reporter Lily O’Shea Becker covers Franklin and Douglas counties in Kansas. Share your story idea with Lily.