Pulaski County Sheriff’s Deputy Recognized by U.S. Representative Walorski

Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office photo

A Pulaski County Sheriff’s Deputy was recently recognized for his actions during a multi-county pursuit last March. Deputy Branson Eber was commended by U.S. Representative Jackie Walorski. Earlier this month, she had a formal recognition of Eber included in the Congressional Record.

On the morning of March 28, Peter J. Doffin Jr., 36, of Lafayette allegedly kidnapped a girl from a home in Warren County, and led several officers on a chase through Tippecanoe, Carroll and White counties. The pursuit finally ended on U.S. 421 south of Francesville, when Doffin’s SUV ran off the side of the road.

He allegedly got out of the vehicle and charged at officers with a knife. That’s when Eber and three other officers reportedly shot at Doffin. Doffin was killed in the incident, but the girl in the vehicle and the officers were unharmed.

In her recognition, Walorski says Eber “went above and beyond to ensure the safe rescue of a fellow Hoosier.” She goes on to say “His spirit and courage are positive reflections on northern Indiana, and our community is a safer place to live because of his service.” Last Wednesday, Walorski presented Eber with a framed copy of his recognition in the Congressional Record.

Sheriff Jeff Richwine told the Pulaski County Council this month that the incident is a good example of why ongoing training for police officers is so important. “That doesn’t just happen,” Richwine said. “That happened because he’s a highly-trained guy. What training does is it puts them in situation that they may get into, so that it’s not the first time – you know, Eber has shot thousands upon thousands of rounds, and so that’s why it turned out so well.”

Earlier this year, the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office awarded Eber with its Medal of Valor.

Sheriff Jeff Richwine, Deputy Branson Eber, U.S. Rep. Jackie Walorski (Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office Photo)