United States Attorney Josh J. Minkler recognizes the dedication and bravery of Indiana law enforcement officials
PRESS RELEASE
Indianapolis-As part of National Police Week, United States Attorney Josh J. Minkler publicly thanks, recognizes, and honors the men and women who serve our great state as Indiana law enforcement officers.
“Aside from the men and women who serve alongside me in the Office of the United States Attorney, working with Indiana law enforcement officers has been my greatest professional privilege," said Minkler. “I am deeply humbled when I think of the sacrifices and unmatched bravery these dedicated professionals demonstrate day after day. During a time in our country when the integrity of public servants is called into question by the actions of few, I stand resolute in my determination to honor and recognize these fine public servants during this week and beyond. I encourage all members of our community to stand shoulder-to-shoulder encircling the efforts of our police officers, and to thank them whenever the opportunity presents itself."
According to the Officer Down Memorial page, 48 officers have been killed in the line of duty in 2018. Of those, 25 were killed by gunfire. Central Indiana’s most recent loss includes Boone County Jacob Pickett who died as a result of gunfire March 2, 2018. In 2017, 128 officers were killed in the line of duty, 44 by gunfire. Southport Police Officer Aaron Allan was killed July 22, 2017.
At both funerals, Minkler read heartfelt letters from Attorney General Jeff Sessions to the fallen officer’s widow.
“When an officer dies in the line of duty, a small part of the community dies as well," said Minkler. “I ask all of Central and Southern Indiana to acknowledge the heroism and professionalism of our officers the next time you come across one and thank them for their service. We owe our safety and wellbeing to them."
The United States Attorney’s Office recognizes the exemplary efforts of local law enforcement officers through USAO Awards that are announced and distributed within the respective communities in the district. The following officers have been recognized in the last 12 months:
Detective Bryan Brown, Evansville Police Department
Secret Service Agent Michael Moore
FBI Special Agent Vanessa Shaw
Detective Robert Wies, Evansville Police Department
FBI Special Agent Ryan Barrett
FBI Special Agent Andrew Willman
Officer Martin Loya, Jasper Police Department.
Additionally, the USAO recognizes and thanks officers from the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department and Evansville Police Department assigned to support the USAO’s reinvigorated Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative. PSN is one platform being utilized by the USAO and the Department to stem the violence in our cities.
Source: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of the United States Attorneys
