Hartnett served the citizens of East Lansdowne for one year, until July, 2011, when Hartnett was appointed to the Philadelphia Police Department and assigned to the 18th Patrol District. While assigned to the 18th, Officer Hartnett was recognized many times for his quality work and outstanding arrests. He was named Officer of the Month for the 18th District in June, 2014, and February, 2015, and also received four Merit Commendations from the Police Department. On January 7th 2015, at 11:40pm, Officer Hartnett was ambushed while on duty by an armed assailant, whose intention was to assassinate a police officer. Reacting quickly, Hartnett took cover in his patrol car, but was nevertheless struck three times in his left arm by gunfire. Hartnett then exited his patrol car and fired back at the assailant, striking him once and slowing him down long enough for other responding officers to take him into custody. Hartnett’s swift and courageous actions during this incident brought credit upon himself and the department, garnered worldwide praise, and undoubtedly prevented future violent acts by this defendant. Officer
Hartnett has suffered permanent injuries to his arm and is currently recovering from his wounds. Officer Hartnett is looking forward to returning to work and serving the
citizens of Philadelphia.