Calling all police poets! Police1’s poetry column highlights some of the inspirational, moving and funny poems authored by our readers.
This poem comes from Dr. Jonathan B. Flores, an active law enforcement officer and advocate for officer wellness. He wrote “A Former Lawman’s Plea” to honor those who have left the profession and now wrestle with a sense of loss, identity and purpose.
Originally written four years ago and recently shared during a mental health awareness event, the poem gives voice to the unseen challenges many officers face once the uniform comes off. With empathy and urgency, Dr. Flores captures the pain of disconnection and the stigma that too often prevents seeking help.
As his words remind us, the duty to care for one another doesn’t end when a career does. His plea is clear: law enforcement leaders must stand up, listen and act before one more brave lawman is lost to silence. For more information on officer wellness resources, click here.
Email your original poem for consideration to editor@police1.com.
A Former Lawman’s Plea
I once was a lawman, proud and brave, serving in blue
I patrolled the streets day and night to care for others and you
I faced grave dangers and met my fears head on
But what am I to do now that the lawman in me has gone?
No more uniform or shiny badge do I dawn
All that remains is the shadow of a brave lawman that once was, but now is so far gone
For my fears now win the battle as no more strength do I have to fight
I pray in anguish that someone can save me from this heavy plight
I dedicated my life to helping others, now I am the one in need
As I sit here in this unfamiliar territory to my maker I plead
Horrific scenes from the past haunt me and do not let me rest
I have guilt for those I could not save, although Lord knows I did my best
Many times, I wanted to talk or ask for help but feared what others might say
You see in this profession there is a stigma, and it has always been that way
I call on all law enforcement leaders to stand up and make it right
Before one more brave lawman falls, and cannot make it through the night
| WATCH: NLEOMF’s Troy Anderson on navigating retirement and wellness in law enforcement