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 & the top cause of death was murder for the first time on record
- 56 police officers have died while serving in 2019
- Five in Florida
It’s been another unfortunate week for those who put on a badge and go to work in our communities. Starting in Port St. Lucie, Officer Steven J. Brown died during training as he led the Police Athletic League’s Police Camp. He’s survived by a wife and two children. In Colorado Trooper William Moden was struck and killed by a motorist while assisting crash victims on a highway. In Wisconsin, Officer John Hetland was murdered when he responded to a robbery in progress, while off duty. He’s survived by two children. In California Officer Tara O’Sullivan was murdered while responding to a domestic violence call.
In addition to losing 56 officers this year, there are 32 widows and 67 children who’ve lost a parent.
The average age of the fallen, 43. The average tour of duty, 14 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.