This week, we highlighted the tragic fact that the number of Florida law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty continues to increase at an alarming rate.

It’s no secret that 2020 was a challenging year for frontline workers—including our brave law enforcement officers. The law enforcement community lost more than twice as many officers in the line of duty in 2020 than in the previous year—totaling more than 350 officers lost nationwide.

Many of those deaths were attributed to COVID-19, and unfortunately the new year has not lessened the dangers associated with keeping our communities safe.

However, COVID-19 is no longer the main culprit.

Violent attacks against law enforcement officers are escalating. In fact, Florida has proven to be the deadliest state thus far in 2021 for law enforcement officer deaths due to felonious acts.

As the wife of a law enforcement officer, these statistics both sadden and infuriate me—and we MUST put a stop to it. Even in the face of these harrowing numbers, Florida law enforcement officers still show up daily to protect the communities they serve. It’s time we show up for them and put a stop to this disturbing trend.

You can help report crime by calling **TIPS (8477) on a mobile device to file an anonymous report, or by calling 911 if you see a crime in progress.

Additionally, if you see a law enforcement officer, even if it is while being pulled over for a traffic violation, thank them for the risks they take to keep us safe.

By lifting up our law enforcement community and showing a strong, united front in support of our brave officers, we will build a Stronger, Safer Florida.