Hayes wins officer honor after nabbing robbery suspects

It didn’t take much information for officer Sherman Hayes to track down suspects in a robbery at the Carver Park.

For his efforts, Hayes was recently recognized with the Officer of the Month award at the Columbus Police Department.

Hayes, 29, recognized the efforts of fellow officers in helping to reduce crime in a particular area of the city. “I was kind of excited that I was able to piece together some information with my squad and make an arrest on it,” he said.

Hayes was on duty March 25 when he was called to 3740 Macon Road to meet with a robbery victim from the Carver Park Community Center. The victim told Hayes the suspected vehicle, a black Chevrolet Malibu, was in the parking lot at the location. The victim had been provided a tag number of the vehicle.

With a tag number and the parked vehicle, Hayes walked over to the unoccupied car and saw a hooded sweatshirt, black pants and other jewelry items in plain view inside the vehicle. The victim had noted that one of the suspects wore a gray sweatshirt and black pants.

As Hayes was leaving the lot, a man left Little Caesar’s restaurant and claimed the car belong to his mother. A warrant was issued for that suspect and a second man. The investigation led to an outstanding warrant for a third suspect.

Sgt. Alicia Hoover, the officer’s supervisor, said Hayes went beyond answering the call from the victim. “By investigating the case thoroughly, he demonstrated a good working relationship with detectives, which can be very valuable in apprehending criminals,” she said in recommending the honor. “His proactive police work, attention to detail, listening skills, instincts when dealing with victims and suspects, and interviewing skills make him a valuable asset to this department and the citizens of Columbus.”

In addition to receiving help from his supervisor, Hayes recognized officer Canaan Traywick who assisted in the investigation.

“It’s always a good feeling when you get told you did a good job or get recognized for something,” he said. “It is our day to day jobs. “

Hayes, a nine-year veteran of the department, plans to make law enforcement his career. “I hope to stay with department,” he said.

This story was originally published May 7, 2016 at 6:03 PM with the headline "Hayes wins officer honor after nabbing robbery suspects."