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
- 73 in 2021 including 9 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 California, Sergeant Richard Brown died of COVID-19 contracted on duty. He’s survived by a wife and three children. In California, DHS Officer Crispin San Jose died from COVID-19 contracted on duty. A Navy veteran, he’s survived by a wife and child. In Illinois, Officer Gary Hibbs died from injuries sustained from attempting to detain a suspect in a domestic disturbance. He’s survived by a wife and son who is also works in law enforcement. In California, Border Patrol Agent Alejandro Flores-Banuelos (pictured), was struck and killed by a motorist while assisting with a crash during a dust storm. A Marine veteran, He’s survived by a pregnant wife and three children. In Orlando, Officer Kevin Valencia was murdered while responding to a domestic disturbance. He’s survived by a wife and two children.
- The average age of the fallen, 51. The average tour of duty, 20 years.
As we reflect on those we’ve lost, please remember the families of our fallen as well. In addition to losing 73 law enforcement professionals in the line of duty this year, there are 40 widows and 91 children who’ve lost a parent. Line of duty deaths are 170% 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: Department of Homeland Security