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. Here are the harsh realities regarding the rise risk in society for law enforcement.
- 307 LOD’s in 2020, including 16 in Florida
- 64 in 2021 including 7 in Florida
Last year was the deadliest for law enforcement since 1932. We’re in an especially dangerous moment due to the defund police movement advanced by political opportunists against the backdrop of a pandemic which has been the leading cause of death for law enforcement most recently. We’ve lost these heroes since the previous update.
In Washington, DHS Officer Cesar Sibonga died of COVID-19 contracted on duty. A Navy veteran he’s survived by a wife and two children. In Texas, Officer Vicky James died of COVID-19 contracted on duty. In California, Border Agent Genaro Gurrero died of COVID-19 contracted on duty. He’s survived by a wife and four children. In Texas, Officer Tawiwo Obele died of COVID-19 contracted on duty. In Texas, Major Estaban Ramierez III died of COVID-19 contracted on duty. He’s survived by a wife and daughter. In Texas, Boder Patrol Agent Carlos Mendoza died of COVID-19 contracted on duty. In California, Deputy Thomas Albanese died in a motorcycle accident while on patrol. A Marine veteran, he’s survived by a wife and two children. In Louisiana, Deputy Martinus Mitchum (pictured) was murdered while providing security to a high school basketball game. In Virginia, Officer Dominic Winum was murdered while conducting a traffic stop. He’s survived by a wife and four children. In Georgia, Captain Justin Bedwell was murdered while conducting a traffic stop. He’s survived by a wife and daughter.
- The average age of the fallen, 51. The average tour of duty, 20 years.
As we reflect on those we’ve lost, please remember the families of our fallen as well. In addition to losing 64 law enforcement professionals in the line of duty this year, there are 33 widows and 76 children who’ve lost a parent. Line of duty deaths are 191% higher than last year’s historically high levels.
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.
Photo Credit: Officer Down Memorial