First, the bad news: There have been 70 law enforcement officer deaths in 2005. Of these 70 officers killed, 32 were shot, 17 died in auto accidents and 5 were struck by automobiles while outside of their own vehicles.
Now, the better news: The number of officers killed in the line of duty during the first half of 2005 compared to last year is down 11%. Like you, we want this downward trend to continue. So, we’re urging law enforcement agencies nationwide to take two key actions:
1. Ensure that every officer is issued and wears a bullet-resistant vest.
2. Provide adequate levels of driver training for all officers.
The NLEOMF has always encouraged every law enforcement officer to use body armor as a vital layer of protection against the dangers they face every day. We continue to urge communities to support appropriate levels of funding to ensure that their officers are suited up safely.
We are also working to ensure that officers get more training behind the wheel before they are sent out into the high-risk, high-speed situations many face daily. Safer automobiles can make an important difference, as will safety restraint systems that are practical and effective for giving officers maximum protection in the event of an accident.
The NLEOMF is dedicated to the “zero officers injured or killed” initiative, which will focus on technologies, policies, and training activities that can halt the still-alarming rate of death and injury. We need your help to continue our work of providing information that will promote officer safety.
By donating now, you will enable the NLEOMF to continue our efforts to educate law enforcement officers on line of duty deaths and promote officer safety. Click here now to make your online donation.
I hope that you will support our efforts to ensure our Nation’s law enforcement officers are adequately equipped and properly trained to combat the threats to the safety and security of our communities.
Sincerely,
Craig W. Floyd
Executive Director
National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund
P.S. As you can see from the data above, your help makes a difference. To make your online donation of $100, $75, $50 or $25, please Click here.
Donation Disclaimer — The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund charges no admission and receives no government or taxpayer support. We rely solely on the generosity of grateful citizens to honor the service and sacrifice of America’s law enforcement officers. Of course, you are under no obligation to make a donation, but we hope you will consider doing so.
