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
- 37 LOD’s in 2020, including 3 in Florida
We lost five heroes this week, making it the deadliest of the year, largely due to the impact of COVID-19. In Broward, Deputy Shannon Bennett died due to COVID-19 after contracting the virus while on duty.In Texas, Sheriff Kirk Coker died due to a heart attack while responding to reports of an unattended death. He’s survived by a wife and three children. In North Carolina, Deputy Bud Phouangphrachanh died due to COVID-19 he contracted in the line of duty. He’s survived by a wife and five children. In California, Deputy Terrell Young died due to COVID-19 he contracted while on duty. He’s survived by a wife and four children. In Illinois, Officer Marco DiFranco died due to COVID-19 he contracted while on duty. He’s survived by a wife and two children.
As we reflect on those we’ve lost, please remember the families of our fallen as well. In addition to losing 37 law enforcement professionals in the line of duty this year, there are 19 widows and 50 children who’ve lost a parent.
- The average age of the fallen, 40. The average tour of duty, 11 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.