On the afternoon of Feb. 23, 2024, Detective Jacob Tri, of the Cascade, Mont., Sheriff’s Office was on duty. Sergeant Tri was waiting for another deputy to assist him with a search warrant for a woman’s residence as part of an investigation.
As Tri waited, he noticed a man approaching his vehicle. The detective exited his vehicle, as it was apparent that the man wanted to talk to him. The man asked Tri why he was there and was informed that there was a search warrant for the address. The man, who turned out to be the boyfriend of the woman being investigated, became upset and belligerent. He walked onto the property and Tri ordered him to leave. The man did not comply, continuing to walk away, so Tri approached him. As Tri approached, the man reached into his pocket in a quick, threatening manner, as if to grab a firearm. As he reached for his own firearm, Tri saw that the man had indeed drawn a pistol and was raising it. Tri responded by trying to fire his own firearm to defend himself. However, his gun malfunctioned, allowing enough time for the man to shoot at him. Tri cleared his malfunction and managed to return fire, even as he was himself struck in the shoulder. Tri’s return fire hit the suspect in his chest and neck, killing the suspect, thus ending the gunfight. Tri exhibited exceptional bravery and courage while facing an armed, violent suspect.
“Detective Tri’s unwavering courage and quick thinking in the face of danger embody the highest ideals of law enforcement,” said Bob Barr, NRA President at the time this award was given. “His swift response to a violent threat, under immense pressure, not only safeguarded his life but also protected the community at large. Detective Tri’s actions on that day serve as a testament to his dedication and unflinching commitment to public safety. The NRA salutes his extraordinary bravery, and we are proud to recognize him as the 2024 NRA Law Enforcement Officer of the Year.”
