A Good Ticket: How Two LVMPD Cops Helped a Family

Discover how LVMPD Officers Shupe and Bowden's quick thinking during a traffic incident earned them a "Good Ticket Award" for public service.

by Admin

Aug 1, 2025

LVMPD Officers Austin Shupe and Jacob Bowden stand with their families after receiving a community service award in Las Vegas.

In a city that never sleeps, the duties of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department are constant. Calls come in for every imaginable situation, but sometimes, a routine incident provides an opportunity for officers to demonstrate exceptional character. This is a story about two officers whose thoughtful actions turned a moment of crisis into an example of true public service.

An Unexpected Turn of Events

The situation began as a minor traffic collision. Officers Austin Shupe and Jacob Bowden arrived at the scene to find that the driver had suffered a medical emergency, which caused the accident. The driver’s immediate health was the top priority, and they were quickly transported to a local hospital for care. With the driver gone, however, a new problem emerged. The driver’s vehicle was set to be towed from the scene, which is standard procedure in such cases.

A Choice of Compassion Over Convention

As they prepared to clear the scene, the officers noticed something inside the car: several hundred dollars worth of groceries. They recognized that towing the car would mean more than just an inconvenience. The cost of towing a car, combined with impound fees, would create a significant financial burden for the family, and the groceries would spoil. Instead of simply following procedure, Officers Shupe and Bowden made a choice rooted in police compassion. They took the initiative to go to the driver's home, where they found a family member. The officers then brought the relative back to the scene, allowing them to safely drive the car and the groceries home.

A 'Good Ticket' for Great Service

This simple but powerful act of kindness did not go unnoticed. The LVMPD recognized Officers Shupe and Bowden for their empathy and service with a "Good Ticket Award" during a special ceremony at Resorts World. Their decision went beyond the call of duty and prevented a difficult situation from becoming a costly one for a family already dealing with a medical scare. It stands as a clear example of compassionate policing and highlights the positive impact officers have in their community every day. This level of professional policing helps build public trust and reinforces the core mission of protecting and serving.

A Final Thought

The actions of Officers Shupe and Bowden are a testament to the fact that good police work is often about seeing the human story behind the call. Their choice reminds us of the profound difference a little empathy can make. To read more stories that showcase law enforcement appreciation and community engagement, explore other articles on our site.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who are LVMPD Officers Austin Shupe and Jacob Bowden?

Officers Austin Shupe and Jacob Bowden are members of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department who were recently recognized for a police act of kindness and compassionate policing following a traffic incident.

2. What is the LVMPD "Good Ticket Award"?

The "Good Ticket Award" is a form of law enforcement recognition used by the LVMPD to praise officers for positive actions and compassionate service that go beyond the badge. It celebrates police good deeds and positive community engagement.

3. Where did the LVMPD award ceremony take place?

The police commendation ceremony, where the officers received their "Good Ticket Award," was held at Resorts World in Las Vegas, Nevada.

4. What is compassionate policing?

Compassionate policing is an approach where law enforcement officers perform their duties with empathy, respect, and a deep understanding of the human element in every situation. It involves looking for solutions that serve the community's best interests, as Officers Shupe and Bowden did.

5. How can I find more positive law enforcement stories?

Websites like WeLovePolice.org are dedicated to sharing stories of good police work, community service police activities, and positive interactions between officers and the public. Following local police department social media pages is another great source.