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 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.
- 491 line-of-duty deaths in 2021 including 50 in Florida
- There are 124 line-of-duty deaths thus far in 2022 including 3 in Florida
2021 was the deadliest year for law enforcement in Florida’s history. The same was true across the country as the US set a record for LODs for the 2nd consecutive year. This included a staggering 60% increase in line-of-duty deaths. Given the remarkable rise in LODs in recent years, it’s as important to support law enforcement as it's ever been, as the job of protecting us is as dangerous as it’s ever been. We’ve lost these heroes since the previous update.
- In Texas, Officer Jade Drennan died of COVID-19 contracted on duty. She’s survived by a husband and daughter.
- In Tallahassee, Officer Christopher Fariello died while on patrol when he was struck by a criminal with unlawful possession of narcotics and weapons.
- In Fort Pierce, FHP Investigator Kyle Patterson was stuck and killed by a wrong way driver. He’s survived by his wife and two children.
- In Mississippi, Officer Kennis Croom was murdered while responding to a domestic disturbance call.
- In Nevada, Detective Justin Terry was killed when he was struck by falling debris on a construction site. He’s survived by his wife and two children.
- In Maryland, Deputy Glenn Hillard was murdered while attempting to arrest a suspect. He’s survived by a wife and three children.
- In California, Corporal Michael Paredes (pictured) and Officer Joseph Santana were murdered while responding to a domestic disturbance call. Michael is survived by a wife and two children. Joseph is survived by a wife and three children.
- In Iowa, Deputy Austin Richardson died in an accident while on patrol. 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. The average age of the fallen is 52, the average tour of duty – 16 years. In addition to losing 124 law enforcement professionals in the line-of-duty this year, there are 75 widows and 197 children who’ve lost a parent.
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 more than ever, just as we need them more than ever.