ATLANTA — As all eyes were on Gov. Brian Kemp Thursday as he delivered his first State of the State address before the legislative body. That changed for one moment with a standing ovation for Covington Police Officer Matt Cooper.
Cooper was shot in the line of duty last year on Labor Day as he was responding to a shoplifting call. The bullet hit him in the head, causing a serious injury that left him with a long road to recovery.
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He spent weeks in the hospital and then was transferred to The Shepherd Center in Atlanta, which specializes in medical treatment and research for people with spine and brain injuries.
He was released to go home just a little before the holidays.
Gov. Kemp talked about some of the plans and changes he wanted to implement during his address Thursday.
While giving a nod to former Governor Nathan Deal for his work in criminal justice reform, Kemp promised to give more resources and support to local law enforcement.
He introduced Cooper to the crowd, a special guest sitting in the gallery.
“Coop – just know, we’re continuing to pray for your recovery,” Kemp said as the crowd turned and gave Cooper a standing ovation.
Cooper stood strong with his wife Kristen by his side. They both smiled for the nearly 2-minute standing ovation.
The governor also mention how much Cooper had to fight to get to this point.
Kemp said Georgia still prays for Cooper's full recovery.
