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Press Release

Statement of U.S. Attorney John H. Durham in Recognition of National Police Week

For Immediate Release
U.S. Attorney's Office, District of Connecticut

This is National Police Week, a time when our nation celebrates the contributions of local, state, federal and tribal law enforcement officers from around the country for their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment in keeping our communities safe.

In 1962, President Kennedy signed a proclamation designating today, May 15, as Peace Officers Memorial Day, and the week surrounding this date as National Police Week, to honor federal, state and municipal officers killed in the line of duty.

According to statistics reported to the FBI, 106 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents in 2018, including two officers here in Connecticut.

The men and women of law enforcement often face uncertain and dangerous situations without question and without expectation of thanks.  Increasingly, there are many citizens who not only expect perfection from our police officers, they demand it.  Officers face this pressure every day and, combined with the everyday pressure of the job and the important responsibility they have to keep us all safe from harm, it takes an undeniable toll.

So far this year, 41 brave men and women of law enforcement have lost their lives in service to the citizens of the United States.  In addition, 78 law enforcement officers in the U.S., including one in Connecticut, have taken their own lives.

I ask that you please take a moment today to remember our fallen officers, and their families and loved ones who live with their loss.

In my long career as a state and federal prosecutor, I have had the honor of working closely with hundreds of law enforcement officers in the cause of justice.  I have the greatest respect and admiration for these men and women, and all officers, troopers and agents who, at any moment, are prepared to put their lives at risk for our safety.

John H. Durham
United States Attorney
District of Connecticut
May 15, 2019

Updated May 15, 2019