The school resource officer who was at the center of foiling a Columbine-style plot at The Villages Charter School this week, has previously been lauded for valor.
Beatrice Ayala of the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office received critical information from a student indicating that two students were plotting an attack which had been allegedly planned for Friday. You can read more about the arrest of the two alleged plotters HERE
In 2013, Ayala had been awarded the Valor Award from the Sumter County Chamber of Commerce in connection with a 2012 incident.
On the afternoon of Aug. 20, 2012, Ayala was called to respond to 10261 County Road 117 near Wildwood in reference to a burglary in progress. The homeowner had arrived home during the burglary and was viciously attacked by two suspects, one of whom was armed with a baseball bat. It was reported that the suspects had fled the scene. Ayala, while responding to the call, located the suspects’ vehicle, and attempted to initiate a traffic stop.
The suspects refused to stop and a vehicle pursuit ensued. At the time, Ayala was still considered a “rookie” law enforcement officer.
“She maintained a professional and calm composure and was able to accurately call out the vital information needed for other responding units, all while being the lead unit in the pursuit,” said Sumter County Sheriff Bill Farmer.
Responding units were able to react accordingly, with the information provided by Ayala, arriving at the scene of the suspects’ vehicle crash within moments, leading to the apprehension of both suspects.
“I firmly believe that without the professional conduct demonstrated by Deputy Sheriff Ayala, and her outstanding performance in the line duty these dangerous suspects might have escaped justice,” the sheriff said.
In addition to the Chamber honor, Ayala was awarded the Sheriff’s Exceptional Achievement Award.
