U.S. Attorney For Utah Recognizes Law Enforcement Officers As National Police Week Begins

SALT LAKE CITY – U.S. Attorney John W. Huber is recognizing the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement as National Law Enforcement Week begins. The week will be observed Sunday, May 10 through Saturday, May 16, 2020.

“As we begin another week amidst the upheaval of the pandemic, may we pause to remember our law enforcement heroes,” Huber said today. “These men and women continue to risk their own personal safety on our behalf. They are selfless, brave and dedicated to preserving peace and ensuring justice.”

“There is no more noble profession than serving as a police officer,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “The men and women who protect our communities each day have not just devoted their lives to public service, they’ve taken an oath to give their lives in order to ensure our safety. And they do so not only in the face of hostility from those who reject our nation’s commitment to the rule of law, but also in the face of evolving adversity – such as an unprecedented global health pandemic. This week, I ask all Americans to join me in saying ‘thank you’ to our nation’s federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. Their devotion and sacrifice to our peace and security will not be taken for granted.”

“Utah police officers make our communities better places to live in ways both large and small.  We observe daily examples of their commitment to the communities they serve, from metro Salt Lake City to the Navajo Nation in southern Utah. Police officers do extraordinary things, often making split-second decisions. They deserve our appreciation and thanks,” Huber said.  “We also remember those officers who have given their lives in the line of duty in Utah.  This week gives us a chance to pay tribute to the service of those who serve us.”

In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices.  Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.

Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year the COVID-19 pandemic has underscored law enforcement officers’ courage and unwavering devotion to the communities they swore to serve.

The names of the fallen officers who have been added in 2020 to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Memorial will be read on Wednesday, May 13, 2020, during a Virtual Annual Candlelight Vigil. Because public events have been suspended as a result of COVID-19, the vigil will be livestreamed to the public at 8:00 pm (EDT). To register to view this free online event, please www.LawMemorial.org/webcast.

To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org.