Bad Things Happen To Good Cops

Chief Thomas Manger of the Montgomery County (MD) Police Department notes the three key issues that face a chief following a line of duty death are investigation of the incident, the pain and emotions the officers are experiencing, and dealing with the family. He acknowledges, "It is an overwhelming task. I'm convinced that until you go through it, you can't predict how difficult it's going to be." He advises police chiefs that if they have to deal with a line of duty death, it is imperative they clear their calendar because there is nothing more important than dealing with that officer. He states, "Focus on the police department, the officer, and the family. It's a 24-hour day while it's going on." Manger understands that the circumstances may not be as drastic when an officer is injured rather than killed.

Sergeant-at-Arms Gainer recognizes the need to stay connected to survivors and family members following line of duty deaths. During his tenure as Chief of the U. S. Capitol Police, Gainer maintained contact with the family survivors of the officers who were killed there in 1998, and he provided them ongoing support. The department holds a private ceremony on the date and at the spot where the officers were killed.

During National Police Week, May 13-19, 2007, special tribute is being paid to 382 fallen law enforcement officers whose names are being added to the walls of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial and include 145 law enforcement officers who were killed in the line of duty during 2006. The total number of names engraved on the walls of the Memorial now totals 17,917.

National Police Week is a time to remember the fallen officers who heroically dedicated their lives for the protection and safety of communities nationwide. As they are saluted for their monumental sacrifice and support to their families is provided, perhaps the words of Prince George's County Maryland State's Attorney Glenn F. Ivey should resound, "Police and law enforcement officers respond to dangerous situations when others retreat from them. We owe them our gratitude and respect. Each time a police officer is injured or killed we, as prosecutors, feel as if a family member has been harmed. It brings a continued sense of appreciation for what law enforcement encounters everyday. They are not only our colleagues but also are friends."