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
- 45 LOD’s in 2020, including 3 in Florida
We lost six heroes this week, making it the deadliest of the year for law enforcement. In Indiana, Officer Breann Leath (pictured) was murdered while responding to a domestic disturbance emergency. A National Guard veteran, she’s survived by a son. In Illinois, Sergeant Clifford Martin died of COVID-19 he contracted on duty. He’s survived by a wife and three children. Also, in Illinois, Police Chief Terry Engle died in a crash while responding to an emergency call. In Pennsylvania, Police Chief Robert Sealock died of an asthmatic episode after a foot chance with a suspect on the run. Robert was a Navy veteran prior to his law enforcement career. In South Carolina, Deputy Jeremy Ladue died in a crash while on patrol. In Massachusetts, Officer Jose Fontanez died of COVID-19 he contracted on duty. He’s survived by a wife and four children.
As we reflect on those we’ve lost, please remember the families of our fallen as well. In addition to losing 45 law enforcement professionals in the line of duty this year, there are 21 widows and 58 children who’ve lost a parent.
- The average age of the fallen, 40. 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.