Honoring Courage and Saluting Sacrifice During National Police Week

This week, Director Michael Botticelli joins thousands of law enforcement officers from across the country, President Obama, Attorney General Loretta Lynch, Secretary Jeh Johnson and other distinguished officials in Washington, D.C. to honor the lives of officers who have gave the ultimate sacrifice. 

As part of National Police Week, Director Botticelli read the names of three fallen officers at the 27^th Annual Candlelight Vigil at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. Today, he will join President Obama at the 34^th Annual National Peace Officers’ Memorial Service on the West Front Lawn of the United States Capitol.

Law enforcement officers have a profound sense of duty to serve and protect their communities.  Every day, they place their lives on the line knowing they could be exposed to harm at any moment.  ONDCP honors all the brave men and women who have died to protect the safety of others. 

During Police Week, we also particularly recognize officers on High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Forces who, despite the risks, remained steadfast and gave their lives in the line of duty, including Ogden Police Officer Jared D. Francom, Los Angeles Sheriff's Department Deputy Sheriff Jerry Ortiz, Glendora Police Detective Louis Pompei , FBI Special Agent Paul M. Sorce and Maryland State Police Corporal Edward M. Toatley.

We owe all those who we have lost, and the men and women keeping us safe today, our deepest gratitude for protecting our families, homes and communities.