SFPD officer from Richmond District honored by Oakland Police Department

San Francisco Police Officer Riley Bandy (center) receives the Oakland PD Silver Star for bravery.

Every week, we get to read about the crime fighting that our Richmond District station officers are engaged in around the neighborhood. But what happens when they change out of uniform and leave the neighborhood to go home?

Back in July around 11pm one night, SFPD Officer Riley Bandy was near Oakland’s Lake Merritt when he came upon an armed robbery in progress.

“Officer Bandy saw the suspect pointing a rifle at the victim and heard the suspect tell the victim to hand over his cell phone. Officer Bandy, who was unarmed, approached the suspect and asked him what he was doing. The suspect pointed the rifle at Officer Bandy who identified himself as a San Francisco Police officer and told the suspect to drop his gun. The suspect fled on foot with Officer Bandy in pursuit,” said the SFPD.

Bandy pursued the suspect, who pointed his rifle at him several times. Bandy took cover each time and used his cell phone to keep Oakland PD updated on the suspect’s location.

As more officers arrived, Bandy heard a heavy metal object hitting the ground and, deciding it must be the rifle, he then tackled the suspect as he ran down the street. Officers and Bandy then took the suspect into custody.

The suspect, a 16 year old male, was identified by the victim and the rifle was recovered, which upon closer inspection, was determined to be a “BB” gun.

At Thursday’s ceremony, Officer Bandy was presented with the Oakland Police Department’s Silver Star for bravery. His commanding officers have also nominated him for an SFPD Medal of Valor.

Congratulations to Officer Bandy – nice to know he’s in OUR neighborhood station. 🙂

Sarah B.

The Oakland Police Department’s Silver Star for bravery, presented to Officer Bandy.