U.S. Attorney Harrington Recognizes Law Enforcement Service and Sacrifice During National Police Week

Spokane – Joseph H. Harrington, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal police officers on the occasion of National Police Week, which is being observed Sunday, May 12 to Saturday, May 18, 2019.

In October 1962, Congress enacted a joint resolution, which the President signed, declaring May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day to honor law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. The resolution also created National Police Week as an annual tribute to law enforcement service and sacrifice.

United States Attorney Harrington said “During Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of police officers from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment in keeping our communities safe. As the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, I want to acknowledge the work performed by federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, who often face uncertain and dangerous situations without question and without expectation of thanks. We want them to know they have our unwavering support and appreciation.”

According to statistics reported to the FBI, 106 law enforcement officers nationwide were killed in line-of-duty incidents in 2018. The names of all 106 fallen officers will be formally dedicated on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC, during the 31st Annual Candlelight Vigil on the evening of May 13, 2019. The Candlelight Vigil is one of many commemorative events taking place in the nation’s capital during National Police Week 2019.

Spokane previously hosted two events to honor law enforcement officers in the State of Washington who were killed or died in the line of duty last week: the Annual Candlelight Ceremony (held on Monday, May 6th) and the 32nd Annual Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Ceremony (held on Tuesday, May 7th).

For more information about other National Police Week events, please visit: www.policeweek.org