Cason named Officer of the Month | Columbus Ledger-Enquirer

After less than a year on the job, Columbus police officer Brandon Cason has been named October's Officer of the Month for his work on recent burglary, theft and sexual assault cases.

"It was completely unexpected," Cason said of the honor. "I haven't been on the streets for that long."

Cason, 26, joined the Columbus Police Department in November 2007. After attending police academy and accompanying a training officer for months, Cason started patrolling the streets by himself about five months ago.

In letters of recommendation, supervisors recognized Cason's work on three different occasions in September.

At the end of the month, Cason was called to a burglary at Columbus' William T. Ford Mortuary. He was able to find the car used in the burglary as well as the two suspects, whom he arrested.

Cason also assisted a sergeant in finding stolen property related to a Calvin Avenue theft investigation. After Cason found the stolen items near a suspect's home, police were able to clear three different theft cases.

Finally, Cason's keen eye helped police catch a suspect in the sexual assault of a child. While driving to the scene, Cason noticed a man who matched the suspect's description and detained him. Cason's work in identifying and helping arrest the suspect led to additional sexual assault charges involving four more children.

Cason said his 6 1/2 years of experience in the U.S. Navy has given him the tact for his law enforcement position.

"I love the job," Cason said. "I enjoy helping people as much as I possibly can."