Protecting The Palm Beaches, A Tribute To Fallen Police Officers
Bottom Line: This weekly feature is designed to recognize those who've paid the ultimate price in service 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
- 143 in 2021 including 11 in Florida
Last year was the deadliest for law enforcement since 1932. We’re in an especially dangerous moment in our country’s history due to the effort of political operatives to politicize law enforcement. Officer involved shooting deaths are 35% below average, however line-of-duty deaths have reached record levels. The facts simply don’t meet the anti-police narrative. We’ve lost these heroes since the previous update.
In Colorado, Deputy James Herrera died of COVID-19 contracted on duty. In Maryland, Lieutenant Adam Gustafson died of a heart attack during active shooter training. An Army veteran, he’s survived by a wife and three children. In Colorado, Deputy Daniel Trujillo died of COVID-19 contracted on duty. In Mississippi, Trooper John Harris (pictured) was struck by a vehicle while conducting a traffic stop. He’s survived by a wife and two children. In Arizona, Officer Ginarro New was struck and killed on patrol by a vehicle which ran a red light. He’s survived by his wife. In California, Sergeant Dominic Vaca
- The average age of the fallen, 48. The average tour of duty, 18 years.
As we reflect on those we’ve lost, please remember the families of our fallen as well. In addition to losing 143 law enforcement professionals in the line of duty this year, there are 72 widows and 166 children who’ve lost a parent. Line of duty deaths are 8% 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: Mississippi Highway Patrol