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Adopt and present a resolution recognizing May 7, 2025, as the 63rd annual commemoration of Peace Officers’ Memorial Day and recognizing May 11-17, 2025, as National Police Officer Appreciation Week in Solano County, with special recognition to those Peace Officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty (Chair Mashburn)
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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 and present a resolution recognizing May 7, 2025, as the 63rd annual commemoration of Peace Officers Memorial Day and recognizing May 11-17, 2025, as National Police Officer 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 Senate Joint Resolution, has designated the week in which Peace Officers Memorial day falls as National Police Officer Appreciation Week. This week has been set aside to honor the many peace officers who bravely hold forth as they defend life and property, prevent crime, and protect citizens’ 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 Week. This year the Peace Officers Memorial Day will be observed the week prior to National Police Officer Appreciation week at Noon on Wednesday May 7th at the Solano County Peace Officers Memorial Wall of Honor located at 530 Union Ave., Fairfield.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The cost associated with preparing this agenda item is nominal and included in the department’s FY2024/25 Working Budget. The costs associated with preparation and purchase of resolution materials are included in the Board’s FY2024/25 Working Budget. There is no additional financial impact on the County as a result of recognizing May 11-17, 2025 as Peace Officer 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 Officer Appreciation Week. Established by joint resolution of Congress in 1962, National Police Appreciation 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.
According to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund from January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2024, 165 law enforcement officers died in the line of duty including the loss of Vacaville Police Officer Matthew Bowen (July 11, 2024). 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.
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.
Currently, Solano County employs up to 149 sworn staff including Deputy-Sheriffs, Sergeant-Sheriffs, Lieutenant-Sheriffs, Captains as well as the Sheriff and Undersheriff. These professionals are responsible for the protection and well-being of the residents living in the unincorporated areas of Solano County including its waterways, and the residents of the City of Rio Vista. Additionally, they support the local police departments and the entire Solano County community through mutual aid assistance, as well as provide staffing to the Coroner’s Office, conduct investigations, and ensure community safety during the transport of detainees and inmates to other jail and prison locations.
National Police Officers’ Appreciation Week provides an opportunity 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