Rex Rasmussen recognized by York County Sheriff’s Office for heroic action in assisting deputy apprehend a suspect

​YORK – Rex Rasmussen of York was recognized this week by the York County Sheriff’s Office – at the start of the York County Commissioners’ meeting – for his heroic action in assisting a deputy in apprehending a suspect.

​York County Sheriff Lt. Alex Hildebrand explained how on Sept. 5, 2025, “a deputy with the York County Sheriff’s Office was attempting to place a suspect under arrest in the 700 mile of Highway 34 following a traffic stop. This suspect physically resisted the deputy’s efforts to take him into custody. The deputy was forced to use their department-issued taser to incapacitate the suspect. After the taser deployment, the suspect continued to fight with the deputy in the middle of the eastbound lane of traffic on Highway 34. Numerous motorists passed by the location and observed the deputy fighting with the suspect. Many motorists even had to drive into the opposing lane to avoid striking the fighting deputy and suspect, but only one stopped to offer the deputy assistance.
“Seeing the deputy in what could have been a struggle for his life, Rex Rasmussen immediately pulled his vehicle to the shoulder of the roadway and, without hesitation, began assisting the deputy in gaining control of and placing the suspect in handcuffs,” Lt. Hildebrand said. “Mr. Rasmussen followed the deputy’s verbal instructions and provided crucial assistance in safely restraining the suspect. His calm demeanor, quick thinking and willingness to intervene under uncertain and potentially dangerous circumstances directly contributed to bringing the situation under control without further injury to the deputy, the suspect or bystanders.
“Mr. Rasmussen’s decisive and selfless actions exemplify the highest ideals of community partnerships and courage,” Lt. Hildebrand said further. “His assistance allowed law enforcement to safely conclude a volatile encounter and ensured public safety along a busy roadway. Mr. Rasmussen’s conduct demonstrates extraordinary civic responsibility, bravery and respect for law enforcement.”
Lt. Hildebrand presented Rasmussen with the York County Sheriff’s Office Community Meritorious Conduct Award “in recognition of his exceptional courage and commitment to community safety. His actions reflect great credit upon himself and set an outstanding example of citizen involvement in support of law enforcement.”
Joining Lt. Hildebrand in honoring Rasmussen were Sheriff Paul Vrbka and Captain Josh Gillespie.
Rasmussen said he was certain the deputy “would have won” the fight in the end without his help but he was glad he was able to assist after he happened to come up on the situation. “And I have to say thank you to our York County Sheriff’s Department and the deputies, they are out there in the wilderness all the time and without backup. A lot of things go on and they keep us safe, they make York County what it is.”
“And Rex, having someone like you is what makes this county good, as well,” said York County Commissioner Randy Obermier.
Lt. Hildebrand noted how in 2023, the York County Sheriff’s Office adopted its award program to recognize “exceptional duty, for both members of the sheriff’s department and for members of the public when warranted.”