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
- 94 in 2021 including 10 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 North Carolina, Sergeant LaShonda Owens died of COVID-19 contracted on duty. She’s survived by two children. In Michigan, Police Chief Fred Posavetz died of COVID-19 contracted on duty. He’s survived by a wife and three children. In Broward, Sergeant Shane Owens (pictured) died of COVID-19 contracted on duty. In Texas, Officer Luis Hernandez Sr. Died of COVID-19 contracted on duty. He’s survived by his wife and three children. In Washington D.C., Capitol Police Officer William Evans was murdered in the lone wolf attack on the Capitol last Friday. In Illinois, Lieutenant James Kouski was stuck by a vehicle while processing another accident. In Georgia, Deputy Christopher Wilson Knight was murdered by a prisoner. He’s survived by a child.
- The average age of the fallen, 50. The average tour of duty, 19 years.
As we reflect on those we’ve lost, please remember the families of our fallen as well. In addition to losing 94 law enforcement professionals in the line of duty this year, there are 48 widows and 113 children who’ve lost a parent. Line of duty deaths are 74% 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: Broward Sheriff's Office