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
- 73 LOD’s in 2020, including 3 in Florida
It was the deadliest week of the year for law enforcement which sadly, ironically,coincides with Police Week - the annual week designated by Congress honoring fallen law enforcement professionals. In Texas, Officer Keith Goodman died of COVID-19 he contracted on duty. He’s survived by a wife and two children. In Texas, Chaplain Akbar Shabazz died of COVID-19 he contracted on duty. He's survived by a wife and five children. In Illinois,Officer Joseph Cappello died of COVID-19 he contracted on duty.He’s survived by his wife.In Texas, Officer Coy Coffman Jr., died of COVID-19 contracted on duty. An Army veteran, he’s survived by a wife and child. In Texas, Officer James Coleman likewise died of COVID-19 contracted on duty. He’s survived by a wife and child. In Louisiana, Officer Mark Hall Sr. died of COIVD-19 contracted on duty. A Navy veteran, he’s survived by a wife and two children. In New York, Sergeant Randall French died of COVID-19 he contracted on duty. He’s survived by a wife and two children. In New Jersey,Officer Charles Roberts died after contracting COVID-19 on duty. He’s survived by a wife and three children.
As we reflect on those we’ve lost, please remember the families of our fallen as well. In addition to losing 73 law enforcement professionals in the line of duty this year, there are 37 widows and 86 children who’ve lost a parent.
- The average age of the fallen, 44. 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.