A South Carolina police officer has been praised for saving a kidnapped woman who mouthed ‘help me’ during a traffic stop.
Officer Wallace, of North Myrtle Beach Police, was patrolling US Hwy 17 on May 28th at around 5:30 am when she noticed a white jeep driving through a red light at the intersection.
After conducting a traffic stop on the vehicle, which contained the female driver and a male passenger, she noticed that the woman seemed extremely distressed.
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As the man looked away from the driver, she silently mouthed 'help me' repeatedly to the policewoman.
Quick-thinking Officer Wallace then removed the passenger from the vehicle and put him in the backseat of a patrol car.
The woman then told Officer Wallace that the passenger had allegedly just shot someone and forced her to take the wheel.
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Within moments, 'a 'Bolo' (Be On the Look Out) was sent over the radio from dispatch regarding a vehicle that was just involved in a shooting in the county', police said.
"Due to Officer Wallace proactively patrolling the streets of North Myrtle Beach, even to the last 30 minutes of her shift, a suspect in a shooting was arrested and an unlawfully carried pistol was recovered underneath the suspect's seat," North Myrtle Beach Police said in a statement posted on Facebook.
"Our department and our community is lucky to have Officer Wallace. Great Job!"
The passenger has since been identified as 29-year-old Collins Bates, who faces several charges, including attempted murder and kidnapping.
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He is currently being held at J. Reuben Long Detention Center under no bond.
Officer Wallace has received heaps of praise on social media, with one user writing: "Way to go!!! And to pull someone for running a red light is just about unheard of these days.
"I’m proud of her for her actions today.
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"She probably saved that lady’s life."
Another added: "Wow this story gave me chills. Thank you to Officer Wallace for her quick thinking, good judgment and great courage."
"Great job ma’am! That’s a prime example as why minor traffic violations should never be ignored. Thank you for your service and thank God for protecting you!" wrote a third.
"Thank you Officer Wallace for putting yourself open harms way everyday to protect the citizens of NMB and surrounding area. You are appreciated," penned a fourth.
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"Nice job Officer, stay safe and continue the good work!!" someone else said.
Anish Vij