The Buchanan County Special Response Team is being recognized for their efforts during an 11-hour standoff last year in St. Joseph.

A joint press conference was held Monday afternoon between the Sheriff’s Department and the St. Joseph Police Department. Law enforcement officials said SRT, which is made of of both deputies and officers were presented in February with an award of valor by the Kansas City Metro Tactical Officers Association for their efforts during a standoff in October at Motel 6.

“This is an organization that sets the training standards nationally for units like this,” said Sheriff Mike Strong. “For them to recognize them is a big deal.”

As we previously reported, 44-year-old Roderick Ellis of St. Joseph was charged with felonies for kidnapping, domestic assault, two counts of armed criminal action and assault or attempted assault on a law enforcement officer. He’s accused of kidnapping a St Joseph woman, forcing her at gunpoint to drive her to the motel, and then, when she cried for help, shooting her in the arm.

Investigators said he then forced the woman into a room at the motel for more than 11 hours. The standoff prompted evacuations and lockdowns, as well as business and highway closures.

Ellis is scheduled for a Jury Trial in November.