Rockville, MD (November 5, 2003) - Anne Arundel County Executive Janet S. Owens joined Montgomery County Executive Douglas M. Duncan at a ceremony this morning as he presented an "Everyday Hero Certificate of Appreciation" to Jim Beckett. Mr. Beckett, a resident of Anne Arundel County who works in Montgomery County, stopped to assist Marna Plaia, the victim of a carjacking in Montgomery County in July 2003. Ms. Plaia's two toddlers were left inside the car during the carjacking. Mr. Beckett's quick thinking was instrumental in assisting police. He realized that his car had the same GPS system as the stolen car. The police were able to reach the GPS company, which then activated the system in the stolen car and listened to what was happening inside. Following a police chase, the suspect was apprehended on Route 50 in Anne Arundel County. Ms. Owens presented Mr. Beckett with a citation and recognized him as one of Anne Arundel County's "Hometown Heros." "Mrs. Plaia and her two children are alive and well today as a direct result of Mr. Beckett's bravery and rapid response," Ms. Owens said. "Your knowledge of the GPS tracking system saved precious time which was crucial to the apprehension of the carjacker and the safe return of the children." |
