Stoneham Police Department Issues Commendation to Detective Who Intervened in Court Attack

STONEHAM — Police Chief James O’Connor is proud to report that Stoneham’s Annual Town Meeting gave a standing ovation to Detective Chris Copan on Monday night as Detective Copan was presented with a Letter of Commendation for helping court officers stop an assault on Woburn District Court. 

On Monday, April 14, at approximately 10 a.m., Detective Copan was in Woburn District Court on police business when an individual forced his way into the courthouse lobby while spraying pepper spray at multiple court officers. The individual was wearing tactical gear, including a helmet and gas mask.

Detective Copan rushed forward and tackled the suspect. At that point several Court Officers assisted as the suspect as taken into custody. Several people who were in the lobby at the time were treated and released from local hospitals following the incident, which was captured on court surveillance video. 

A subsequent investigation revealed the suspect was carrying eight pepper spray canisters and two smoke devices, underscoring the potential for even greater harm had the situation not been brought under control so quickly.

“In that moment of crisis, Detective Copan made a split-second decision without knowing the full extent of the threat,” Chief O’Connor told Town Meeting. “When he intervened, his courage, professionalism, and commitment to protecting others was on full display. Because of his quick and decisive actions, the suspect was subdued, lives were protected, and what could have been a much more devastating event was brought under control.”

Detective Copan has served the community with the Stoneham Police Department since 2000. He has been a detective for approximately 10 years. Detective Copan is also a U.S. Army veteran. 

“Police officers accept the reality that they may be called upon at any moment to face unpredictable and life-threatening situations,” Chief O’Connor wrote in a Letter of Commendation. “Detective Copan’s actions reflect the highest standards of law enforcement, demonstrating exceptional bravery, sound judgment, and a deep commitment to the safety of others. His conduct brought both local and national acclaim to the Stoneham Police Department and serves as a proud example of the professionalism and valor embodied by its officers.”

To view a video of the Annual Town Meeting, which includes the presentation to Detective Copan approximately nine minutes into the meeting, click here. 

(The Stoneham Police Department will have no further comment at this time. Media inquiries about the pending court case should be directed to the Middlesex District Attorney’s Office.)