Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today issued the following statement regarding the recognition of 14 Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Officers as National Association of Police Organizations' (NAPO) TOP COP Award Recipients:

"California has the best and most dedicated police officers in the nation working to protect us. The extraordinary bravery and teamwork shown by these LAPD officers is one of many reasons why they are so deserving of this prestigious award.

"The 14 officers honored today worked quickly and courageously in the moment to prevent harm, save lives and ensure public safety. Maria and I join all Californians in expressing our gratitude for their service and pride for the work they do every day to keep us safe."

The Los Angeles Police Department officers are being honored today for their bravery and teamwork in a dangerous standoff with an assailant responsible for four deaths. On February 7, 2008, the LAPD responded to a report that a distressed man killed his family, was suicidal, and had hostages. When the SWAT team arrived at the residence and initiated a forced entry, the man opened fire, hitting two officers - one of them fatally.