A Banks County officer who helped capture a dangerous murder suspect has been nominated for a national award. Deputy Sheriff Clay Geidner is one of 30 finalists for a national Axon award and just one of ten in the “Officer” category. Over 25,000 nominations were received from across the country.
Deputy Geidner is the officer credited with bringing in the man accused of killing a postal worker in August of 2021. When Deputy Geidner saw the suspect’s vehicle, he attempted a traffic stop. The suspect did not stop and Deputy Geidner pursued, using a PIT manuever to stop the vehicle. The suspect immediately began firing a rifle at Deputy Geidner, striking his vehicle multiple times, including through the windshield and several in the driver’s headrest.
Deputy Geidner returned fire while also using the vehicle for cover. The suspect was finally struck and deputies were able to take him into custody. According to the AXON nomination, “Deputy Geidener kept a calm demeanor, and due to his bravery in the face of gunfire, a dangerous criminal was taken into custody.”
According to the Axon website, awards are given in three categories, the first being the RISE Officer award honoring an officer that has saved a life or shown exemplary performance. They also honor a department with an “Agency” award and a "Community" award for partnerships between community organizations and law enforcement.
Winners will be announced at a national conference in May. The top two finalists in all three categories will receive an all-expenses paid trip to Phoenix, AZ to attend the conference.
