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
- 51 LOD’s in 2020, including 3 in Florida
We lost five heroes this week as the impact of COVID-19 continues to pose an additional threat to law enforcement. In New York, Sergeant Joseph Spinosa died due to COVID-19 he contracted while on duty. In New Jersey, Detective Alex Ruperto likewise died due to the coronavirus contracted while on duty. He’s survived by two children. In Texas, Officer Justin Putnam was murdered in an ambush when he responded to a domestic disturbance call. In Georgia, Officer Christopher Ewing was killed by a drunk driver while on patrol. An Air Force Reserves veteran he’s survived by a wife and three children. In Louisiana, Corrections Agent Kaitlin Cowley (pictured) was killed in an accident while transporting inmates. She’s survived by her husband.
As we reflect on those we’ve lost, please remember the families of our fallen as well. In addition to losing 51 law enforcement professionals in the line of duty this year, there are 23 widows and 63 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.