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
- 52 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 Maryland, DHS Director Beverly Good died of COVID-19 contracted on duty. She’s survived by a husband and two children. In Texas, Officer Robert Perez died of COVID-19 contracted on duty. Robert was a Navy veteran. In California, Sergeant Richard Brown died of COVID-19 contracted on duty. He’s survived by a wife and three children. In Collier County, Officer Horacia Dominquez died while on patrol with the Miccosukee Tribe. A Marine Corps and Army National Guard veteran, he’s survived by a wife and daughter. In Indiana, Lieutenant Eugene Lasco was murdered by an inmate who was being transferred. He’s survived by a wife and two children. In Ohio, Officer Jason Lagore (pictured) died due to exposure while rescuing two children who’d fallen through ice. He’s survived by a wife and two children.
- The average age of the fallen, 49. The average tour of duty, 21 years.
As we reflect on those we’ve lost, please remember the families of our fallen as well. In addition to losing 52 law enforcement professionals in the line of duty this year, there are 27 widows and 62 children who’ve lost a parent. Line of duty deaths are 132% 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: Ohio Department of Natural Resources