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.
This is the unfortunate news you need to know:
- 148 officers died in the line of duty in 2018 & the top cause of death was murder for the first time on record
- 105 officers have died while serving in 2019
- Seven in Florida
This week... In California, officer Jonathon Diaz was murdered while responding to a domestic disturbance. He’s survived by three children. In Washington, Police Chief Michael Knapp died after being struck by a driver without headlights on. An Army veteran, he’s survived by his wife. In Ohio, Detective Jorge DelRio was murdered while serving a search warrant. He’s survived by a wife and three children.
As we reflect on those we’ve lost, please remember the families of our fallen as well. In addition to losing 105 law enforcement officials this year, there are 58 widows and 134 children who’ve lost a parent.
- The average age of the fallen, 44. 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.