The Medal of Honor is the highest commendation presented to a Cleveland Division of Police officer for acts of personal bravery performed beyond the call of duty and involving an incontestable risk of life.
The following narrative was taken from the Medal of Honor presentation for Patrol Officer Abigail Pietri provided by the City of Cleveland’s Awards Ceremony held on May 7, 2026.
On October 20, 2025, Patrol Officer Abigail Pietri was working at an elementary school when a mother called to report that her daughter had brought a gun to school. As the principal made an announcement to alert staff and initiate safety protocols, Officer Pietri heard two students scream, “Gun, gun!” Officer Pietri immediately responded, unholstered her firearm, kept it in a low-ready position, and moved to a position of cover. From there, she observed the suspect holding a firearm pointed at two other students. Officer Pietri began issuing commands, allowing one of the students to run to safety. As Officer Pietri cautiously approached, she observed that the suspect’s finger remained off the trigger, but the firearm was still pointed at the remaining student.
Officer Pietri focused her attention on the suspect and gave clear verbal commands to drop the weapon. The suspect instead placed the gun to her own head and stated, “You’re going to take me to jail.” Remaining calm and composed, Officer Pietri instructed the suspect to take a step back. The suspect complied, and Officer Pietri continued to engage her in conversation, explaining she became a police officer to help children and urged her to put the gun down. After several verbal commands, the suspect placed the gun on the ground and took six steps back, as ordered. Officer Pietri then safely secured the firearm and the suspect without further incident. Officer Pietri’s quick, courageous, and composed actions prevented a potential tragedy and ensured the safety of the students and staff.
It is because of her compassion and bravery that the Cleveland Police Foundation is indeed honored to name Patrol Officer Abigail Pietri its Police Officer of the Month for May 2026.
-Submitted by Bob Guttu
Nominated by CPD Lieutenant Ed Lentz
Donate today and help those who serve
Your gift supports compassion in action through officer wellness, youth engagement, and community outreach across Cleveland.