By Liz McBreen
On May 6, about 200 people gathered to see Flores and other local heroes honored for their bravery in such situations by the American Red Cross at the Third Annual Heroes Breakfast at the Garden City Hotel.
Flores was nominated for his constant commitment and dedication to his job, and his compassion and strength of character in times of emergency. Red Cross representatives sifted through the many nominations they received and chose nominees who exemplified the best of Nassau County. Flores received the Law Enforcement Award at the Breakfast.
On Jan. 23, the off-duty police officer had just stepped inside a laundromat in the Bronx when he saw two men wearing ski masks forcing a female employee towards a back room at gunpoint. Another man, also an off-duty police officer happened to be in the laundromat at the same time, and he called 911 immediately and informed the police that a robbery was taking place.
Both officers then drew their weapons, and ordered the suspects to exit with their hands up. One of the men surrendered peacefully, but the other one pointed a gun at Flores. Fortunately, he was able to tackle the suspect, and after a struggle and a short chase on foot, the suspect was caught and apprehended.
This is not the only instance that Flores exhibited his courage and ability to stay calm under pressure. On April 26, while he was responding to a robbery, he saw three men leaving a building through the rear door, and one of them was being held as a hostage at gunpoint. As Flores called for backup, the hostage managed to break free. Suddenly, one of the suspects began firing at the officer, and he attempted to return fire, but his gun malfunctioned. Flores was able to quickly clear his weapon and fired a shot that knocked one of the suspects to the ground.
"Officer Flores' rapid intervention on January 23 and placing himself at risk of imminent serious physical injury on April 26 are acts of bravery clearly responsible for saving lives while protecting the public and his fellow police officers," said Harriette P. Thayer, the Chairman of the Nassau Chapter of the American Red Cross. "We are proud to honor Officer Flores."
