Idaho Medal of Honor Recipient
August 4, 2021

Officer Steve Bonas
Boise City Police Department

On March 8, 2013, Boise City Police Department Patrol Officer/K-9 Handler Steve Bonas responded to a request for assistance from Ada County Sheriff’s deputies for a Patrol K-9 team to help locate a homicidal and suicidal suspect armed with a handgun.  Shortly after Officer Bonas’ arrival, the suspect drove his vehicle directly at the officers, stopped approximately 20 yards in front of their vehicles and exited his vehicle with a handgun held to his head.  The suspect then re-entered his vehicle and led officers on two separate pursuits.  The suspect’s vehicle was eventually rendered immobile by spike strips.  He then exited the vehicle and pointed the handgun at the officers.  Officers shot the suspect in defense, but the suspect refused to obey officer commands to discard his weapon.  To end the altercation and get the suspect medical attention, Officer Bonas devised a plan to prevent another shooting and save the suspect’s life.  A taser was deployed as a distraction, while Officer Bonas and his K-9 Ruwa moved forward toward the suspect without cover.  Ruwa, connected to a long line, attached himself to the suspect still in possession of the handgun.  The suspect released the handgun during the contact and officers were then able to pull the line connected to the suspect and drag him away from the handgun.  Officers then secured the suspect and provide life-saving medical attention.

Through indomitable courage, complete disregard for his own safety, and profound concern for the safety of others, Officer Steve Bonas showed great determination and bravery.  Officer Bonas’ extraordinary heroism and intrepidity, with danger to his own life above and beyond the call of duty, are in the highest traditions of the Boise Police Department and Idaho law enforcement.