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.
- 132 line of duty deaths in 2019
- Murder was the top cause of death for the second consecutive year
- 17 LOD’s in 2020, including 2 in Florida
Over the past week we suffered two line of duty deaths. In New York, Officer Matthew Seydewitz died of cancer attributed to his work as a first responder on 9/11. In Louisiana, Deputy Donna Richardson-Below died when she was struck in ahead on collision while on patrol.
As we reflect on those we’ve lost, please remember the families of our fallen as well. In addition to losing 17 law enforcement professionals in the line of duty this year, there are five widows and eighteen children who’ve lost a parent.
- The average age of the fallen, 38. The average tour of duty, 9 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.