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 135 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 Nebraska, Deputy Jeff Hermanson died of a heart attack following the pursuit and successful apprehension of a suspect who’d stolen a vehicle. He’s survived by a wife and two children.
- In Texas, Officer Jeffrey Richardson (pictured) was struck and killed by a drunk driver while directing traffic. He’s survived by a wife and five children.
- In Alabama, Deputy Steven Johnson was murdered while in pursuit of a car-jacker. He’s survived by a fiancée and two children.
- In Kentucky, Captain Ralph Frasure, Deputy William Petry and Officer Jacob Chaffins were murdered while attempting to serve an arrest warrant. Captain Frasure is survived by a wife and three children. Deputy Petry is survived by a wife and two children. Officer Chaffins, a National Guard veteran, is survived by a wife and daughter.
- In Iowa, Sergeant John Williams died due to injuries sustained in pursuit of a shooter. He’s survived by a wife and four 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 46, the average tour of duty – 16 years. In addition to losing 135 law enforcement professionals in the line-of-duty this year, there are 85 widows and 219 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.