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
- 22 LOD’s in 2020, including 2 in Florida
We lost a hero in Arkansas this week. Officer Brent Scrimshire was murdered while conducting a traffic stop. Brent was recognized as the Officer of the Year by the Arkansas Attorney General in 2016. He's survived by a wife and two young children (pictured). On a brighter note, we have seen progress in 2020 to date. Overall LOD’s are down 33% compared to this time a year ago.
As we reflect on those we’ve lost, please remember the families of our fallen as well. In addition to losing 22 law enforcement professionals in the line of duty this year, there are 10 widows and 25 children who’ve lost a parent.
- The average age of the fallen, 40. The average tour of duty, 9 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.