Pictured, from left, are acting warden of the Alger Correctional Facility, Doug Tasson, Officer Jesse Freeman, Trooper Nolan Jenich, and Negaunee post commander, Tom Nolan. (Photo courtesy of Michigan State Police)

MARQUETTE — Off duty corrections officer Jesse Freeman of Negaunee was presented with the Michigan State Police Pride of the Eighth award by the Negaunee post commander, 1st Lt. Tom Nolan in a ceremony at the Negaunee post.

At about 5 a.m. on Feb. 15, Trooper Nolan Jenich of the Negaunee post was attempting to arrest a driver for operating while intoxicated on M-28 in Alger County.

The subject began resisting arrest and a physical altercation ensued. The closest backup unit to Jenich was approximately 45 to 60 minutes away. But Freeman was driving by the location on his way to work at the Alger Correctional Facility.

Freeman saw the struggle between the trooper and the intoxicated subject. Freeman stopped his vehicle, exited and ran over to assist the trooper. Freeman assisted in getting the intoxicated subject into custody and that ended the physical altercation.

In a letter to Freeman, MSP’s Eighth District commander Capt. Darren Green wrote:

“After careful consideration of the facts and circumstances surrounding the incident, it was decided your actions deserved recognition with a ‘Pride of the Eighth’ award for your selfless act, care and consideration of another civil servant’s well-being and success in the performance of his duties. I salute you for your outstanding work and commitment to public safety.”