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Adopt a resolution recognizing the National Police Week of May 10-16, 2020 as Peace Officers’ Appreciation Week in Solano County, with special recognition to those peace officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty
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Published Notice Required? Yes ____ No __X_
Public Hearing Required? Yes ____ No __X_
DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION:
The Sheriff recommends the Board of Supervisors adopt a resolution recognizing the National Police Week of May 10-16, 2020 as Peace Officers’ Appreciation Week in Solano County with special recognition to those peace officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty.
SUMMARY:
In recognition of the contributions that our peace officers make to our Nation, Congress, by Joint Resolution, has designated the week in which Peace Officers’ Memorial Day falls as National Police Week. This week has been set aside to honor the many peace officers who bravely hold forth as guardians of life and property, warriors battling crime and protectors of a citizen's right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
The Sheriff’s Office recognizes the need to raise public awareness about the services and functions of peace officers, and therefore wishes to participate in the upcoming National Police Officers’ Appreciation Week.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The cost associated with preparing this agenda item is included in the department’s FY2019/20 Adopted Budget. The costs associated with preparation and purchase of the resolution materials are included in the Board’s FY2019/20 Adopted Budget. There is no additional financial impact on the County as a result of recognizing May 10-16, 2020 as Police Week and Peace Officers’ Appreciation Week.
DISCUSSION:
In 1962, President John F. Kennedy designated May 15th as Peace Officers’ Memorial Day and the week in which it falls as National Police Week. Established by joint resolution of Congress in 1962, National Police Week pays special recognition to those peace officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others. As of December 27, 2019, there were 128 officer deaths (nine in the state of California) with the leading cause due to fire-arms related fatalities, according to the National Law Enforcement Officers’ Memorial Fund. Over the years, the Solano County Sheriff’s Office has lost three officers in the line of duty and thereby giving the ultimate sacrifice; their names are Hale Humphrey (March 15, 1963), Jose Cisneros (August 25, 1985) and John Sandlin (April 23, 2004). We must all take a moment to appreciate the risks peace officers take every day to protect every one of us and this great nation. Normally this would culminate in a memorial event; however, given the current situation with COVID-19 the event gathering will not occur this May.
It is critical that the public know and understand the duties, responsibilities, hazards, challenges and sacrifices law enforcement personnel face daily when performing their jobs. It is equally important that peace officers recognize the risks of their sworn duty to serve the community when safeguarding life and property, protecting against violence and disorder, and preventing deception and oppression.
Currently, Solano County employs 106 Deputies, 15 Sergeant Sheriffs, 7 Lieutenant Sheriffs, and 3 Captains. These professionals are responsible for the protection and well-being of more than 19,500 residents living in the unincorporated areas of the County. Additionally, they support the local police departments and the entire Solano County community through mutual aid assistance.
National Police Officers’ Week is an ideal time to recognize and celebrate peace officers for their devotion, bravery, and ongoing commitment.
ALTERNATIVES:
The Board could choose not to adopt the resolution; however, this alternative is not recommended as this week is an opportunity to recognize the hard work and dedication of the sworn staff.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
None.
CAO RECOMMENDATION:
APPROVE DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION