Protecting the Palm Beaches – a tribute to those who serve and sacrifice
Bottom Line: This weekly feature is designed to recognize those who've paid the ultimate price to serve their communities and to serve as a reminder of what our police risk to keep us safe.
This is the unfortunate news you need to know:
- 148 police officers died in the line of duty in 2018 – 16% higher year over year & the top cause of death was murder for the first time on record
- 46 police officers have died while serving in 2019
- Three in Florida
- Two fallen officers this week
In Puerto Rico, Officer Jesus Marrero-Martinez was murdered during a carjacking attempt. He’s survived by a wife and four children. In Louisiana Lieutenant Steven Whitstine died in an auto accident while on patrol. He’s survived by a wife and two children.
In addition to losing 46 officers this year, there are 29 widows and 55 children who’ve lost a parent.
The average age of the fallen, 42. The average tour of duty, 13 years.
Remember to back the badge and spread the word. Media often aren't there for our law enforcement, but we can be. Let our police, and their families, know we support them every chance you get. They need it, now more than ever, just as we need them more than ever.