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
- 56 LOD’s in 2020, including 3 in Florida
We lost four heroes this week as the impact of COVID-19 continues to pose an additional threat to law enforcement.In Washington D.C., Corporal Lawrence Onley died due to COVID-19 he contracted on duty. He’s survived by a daughter. In California, Officer Dan Walters died due to complications of a gunshot wound he’d suffered while on duty as he was attacked by a suspect he was investigating. Prior to his service in law enforcement he played Major League Baseball with the San Diego Padres. In Louisiana, Lieutenant Glenn Hutto, Jr. Was murdered as he attempted to apprehend a murder suspect. In Texas, Deputy John Rhoden (pictured) was murdered by a suspect who intentionally struck him with a vehicle as he attempted to deploy spike strips to end a high-speed chase.
As we reflect on those we’ve lost, please remember the families of our fallen as well. In addition to losing 56 law enforcement professionals in the line of duty this year, there are 23 widows and 64 children who’ve lost a parent.
- The average age of the fallen, 41. The average tour of duty, 13 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.