Two Columbia Falls police officers were commended by the city last week for their actions while on duty.

On March 11 Jake Dalimata gave a woman who was having a heart attack CPR until emergency personnel arrived on the scene. The woman survived several more days at the hospital, allowing her family to visit her before she died, noted police Chief Chad Stephens.

Hospital staff noted Dalimata’s actions prolonged her life and her pre-hospital care by him was excellent.

In a separate matter, officer Todd Hall was recognized for his investigation and actions in the case of Jacob Balbas.

On Nov. 22, 2024, Hall investigated Balbas’ case after he threatened to kill his ex-wife. Hall obtained a search warrant of Balbas’ home and found a “sniper’s nest” set up near a bedroom window. He also discovered that Balbas threatened to shoot up churches.

Balbas was convicted April 15 of felony criminal endangerment and felony intimidation after a jury trial in Flathead County District Court in front of Judge Danni Coffman.

After he was found guilty, he also threatened Coffman.

The criminal endangerment charge stemmed from a high speed chase after Balbas tried to flee law enforcement.

Peters said Hall’s diligent investigation helped lead to Balbas’ conviction.

In other police and emergency personnel news, the city swore in officer Daniel Bogardus.

Bogardus is a native of Seeley Lake and an Army veteran. He was previously a wildland firefighter for the state Department of Natural Resources and Conservation.

It also swore in a new full-time firefighter position. Devon Hagen was previously a captain with the Great Falls Fire Rescue. He is the son of longtime chief Rick Hagen, who is retired.

The addition of Hagen brings the firefighting force up to five full-time firefighters, including Chief Karl Weeks.

The city also added a new volunteer firefighter in Sam Hovde. Hovde, is a Columbia Falls native and Columbia Falls High School graduate.