It is a privilege to announce Patrolman Joseph Huggins as “Police Officer of the Month” for June 2008.  This honor speaks highly of his character and performance as a member of the North Charleston Police Department.

 On April 24, 2008, Patrolman Huggins responded to Ashley Shores Dr. in reference to a stolen moped.  After providing information on the stolen vehicle, the victim advised that he had observed several subjects in the neighborhood walking around with a loaded gun.  The victim was unable to provide any physical description or a location of where the subjects may be.  At this point Ptl. Huggins took the initiative to investigate this situation and began a foot patrol of the area for the subjects.  During patrol Ptl. Huggins came across two subjects in the back yard of a near by residence.  Aware of the major gun and drug problem in the area, Ptl. Huggins conducted a protective sweep of the immediate area for safety.  This sweep revealed a large bag containing 14 small individually wrapped baggies of green leafy substance.  This substance field tested presumptive for marijuana and had an approximate weight of 15.8 grams.  Ptl. Huggins widened the search to include the next yard where you found a .45 cal. High Point handgun, fully loaded with one round in the chamber, on the ground.  One suspect claimed ownership of the handgun and a second suspect claimed ownership of the drugs.  Both were then placed under arrest and charged with felony drug charges and weapons violations and transported to the County Jail.

Ptl. Huggins’ dedication and determination in this case was outstanding.  Because he took the initiative to fully investigate the small of information you had to work with, two dangerous felons, a gun and drugs have been taken off of our streets. 

Patrolman Huggins is truly a credit to law enforcement and the City of North Charleston.  It is indeed a privilege to congratulate him on a job well done!