AG Moody Recognizes Largo Police Officer

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Attorney General Ashley Moody today presented a Back the Blue Award to Largo Police Officer Jonathon DePierre for his heroic efforts during a water rescue. Earlier this year, Officer DePierre arrived at a scene of an accident where a 73-year-old woman submerged her car into a pond. Officer DePierre quickly jumped into the pond and held the woman’s head above the water to keep her from drowning, and ultimately freed the woman’s legs that were trapped under the steering wheel. Several good Samaritans also jumped into the water to help the elderly woman and try to keep the car from sinking further.

Attorney General Ashley Moody said, “Officer DePierre is another prime example of a courageous law enforcement officer who selflessly serves his community. His heroic actions during a time-pressing and critical situation are exceptional, and thanks to his passion for helping others, this woman left the scene of the accident with only minor injuries. Thank you, Officer DePierre for bravely serving your community and saving this woman’s life.”

Chief of Police Jeff Understad said, "Officer DePierre's service to our city is exemplary and this incident is just one example, we are extremely proud to have him on our team!"

Officer DePierre has served the Largo Police Department for three years and is currently assigned to the Problem Oriented Policing Unit. Prior to his career in law enforcement, Officer DePierre served in the United States Army.

For more information about the Attorney General’s Back the Blue Award, click here.
Attorney General Ashley Moody’s Back the Blue campaign highlights law enforcement officers, citizens and organizations taking extraordinary steps to forge positive relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve. Supporting law enforcement is a top priority for Attorney General Moody and the mission of Back the Blue is to commend Florida’s brave law enforcement officers and Floridians who back them.