By Kieran Nicholson
The Denver Post
DENVER — A Denver deputy sheriff was awarded the department’s Medal of Valor on Thursday for defusing a violent incident at the downtown jail in which she was allegedly attacked.
Deputy Ida McComb was recognized by Denver Sheriff Elias Diggins who presented her with the prestigious award at a department ceremony. The medal recognizes deputies “who have exhibited exceptional courage, regardless of personal safety, in the attempt to save or protect others,” according to a sheriff’s news release.
While working in a housing unit at the jail McComb was allegedly attacked by an inmate, the release said. Other inmates separated McComb and the alleged assailant, who they in turn attacked in defense of McComb.
“Deputy McComb quickly gained her composure and began to give commands, ordering individuals away from the inmate she believed attacked her and reestablished control of the housing unit while calling for assistance,” the release said. “Her quick thinking and response redirected a situation that could have spiraled out of control.”
McComb joined the department in March and is assigned to the downtown jail. An Army reservist, she’s served in Kuwait, Qatar, Germany and Panama over the past 11 years.
“Deputy McComb displayed the valor it takes to be a Denver Deputy Sheriff and led with her humanity,” said Sheriff Diggins, in the release. “She was faced with a very challenging circumstance and with her swift and selfless actions, diffused a volatile situation.”
Further details on the incident were not released pending an ongoing investigation.
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