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The Police Benevolent Foundation is set to aid the family of fallen Atkins Police Officer Dolphus Schmelzla

The Police Benevolent Foundation, Inc. and the Arkansas Division of the Southern States PBA are rallying behind the family of Atkins police officer Dolphus Schmelzla who died from injuries he sustained in a motor vehicle accident while on his way to work on Thursday, August 29, 2013. Officer Schmelzla had over 20 years of law enforcement experience and was a valued member of the Atkins Police Department.  Dolphus was a great officer who will be missed tremendously by the Atkins Police Department, as well as other surrounding law enforcement agencies.

The Police Benevolent Foundation has established a “Benefit Account for Dolphus Schmelzla” at River Town Bank.  Donations can be made at any River Town Bank to assist in efforts to provide financial support to Officer Schmelzla’s family in this time of need.  Donations can also be made through the Police Benevolent Foundation’s website by clicking Here and be sure to designate the donation to the “Benefit Account for Dolphus Schmelzla.”The Police Benevolent Foundation is also taking donations via text message in memory of Officer Schmelzla. You can help Officer Schmelzla’s family by texting, “COPS DOLPHUS” to 85944.  A one-time donation of $10 will be added to your mobile phone bill. Msg & data rates may apply. Available on Verizon Wireless, AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile. Must be 18 or older and have authorization of account holder. Donations benefit The Police Benevolent Foundation, collected by Innogive Foundation. Subject to terms: igfn.org/t. Privacy policy: igfn.org/p. Text STOP to 85944 to stop; Text HELP to 85944 for help. 
The PBF is asking everyone to please pass this information along to friends and family. Officer Schmelzla’s family will need everyone to rally behind them during this difficult time.Arkansas PBA Division President Scott Hicks said, “Our thoughts, prayers, and support go out to Officer Schmelzla’s family during this difficult time.  This incident reminds us all of the dangers that law enforcement officers face and the community support that is needed for our brave men and women who protect us every day.”It is with a heavy heart that the PBF and ARPBA ask for the help of the community, both locally and nationally, to aid in efforts to provide much needed support to this officer’s family in this time of distress.
Officer Schmelzla’s funeral service will be held on Tuesday, September 3rd at 10am at the Restoration Church located at 2349 S. Elmira Ave. in Russellville, AR.  Visitation will be at Broussard Funeral Home on Monday, September 2nd from noon till 5pm. Broussard Funeral Home is located at 3323 E. 6th St, Russellville, AR 72802 and can be reached at 479-968-1143.

The PBF mourns the loss of Ashley Vincent, the wife of PBA member and law enforcement officer Matthew Vincent.

The PBF mourns the loss of Ashley Vincent, the wife of PBA member and law enforcement officer, Matthew Vincent. Ashley passed away in her sleep after visiting a medical facility with complaints of stomach pains. Our hearts go out to Matthew and their young kids (ages 3 and 1) who are left to rebuild their lives in the face of what will undoubtedly be a tough recovery. The Columbia Chapter of the South Carolina PBA is asking for donations to help ease the financial burden on Matthew and his beautiful children. If you would like to participate in the efforts, you may click on the link below and designate your donation to the the Matthew Vincent Family or by texting COPS VINCENT to 85944. A one-time donation of $10 will be added to your mobile phone bill. Msg & data rates may apply. Available on Verizon Wireless, AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile. Must be 18 or older and have authorization of account holder. Donations benefit The Police Benevolent Foundation, collected by Innogive Foundation. Subject to terms: igfn.org/t. Privacy policy: igfn.org/p. Text STOP to 85944 to stop; Text HELP to 85944 for help.

Donate Now!!

vincent


Virginia Division hosts another successful PBF Behind the Badge Suicide Prevention Seminar

On July 16 2013 the Virginia Division hosted another successful PBF Behind the Badge Suicide Prevention Seminar.  Guest speakers Tim Rutledge and Jim Sewell,once again, did an outstanding job presenting this vital information to law enforcement professionals from the Central and Northern Virginia Area.
Glen Hoyer, Director of the Law Enforcement Division of the National Rifle Association, made it possible for us to hold our seminar in their beautiful auditorium, just one floor down from the famous National Rifle Association Firearms Museum.  Participants enjoyed a fine noon meal from the NRA Cafe located on site.
In attendance was House of Representatives member Delegate Charniele Herring.  Delegate Herring attended the entire seminar and reports that she gained much insight into the topic of law enforcement suicide and stress.
Please monitor the web site for information about upcoming seminars in your area.

PTSD Seminar 010

Sean McGowan, Jim Sewell, Delegate Charniele Herring, Virginia Division Presidnet Joe Woloszyn and Tim Rutledge

PTSD Seminar 008

PTSD Seminar 001


The Police Benevolent Foundation is set to aid the family of fallen Scott County (AR) Sheriff Cody Carpenter

cody_carpenterThe Police Benevolent Foundation, Inc. and the Arkansas Division of the Southern States PBA are in mourning as one of their own, Sheriff Cody Carpenter of the Scott County Sheriff’s Office, died while trying to save two women from rising flood waters.  Sheriff Carpenter paid the ultimate sacrifice, and it is with a heavy heart that the PBF asks for the help of the community, both locally and nationally, to aid in their efforts to provide much needed support for this hero’s beneficiaries in their time of need.

An account has been established under the Police Benevolent Foundation called the “Sheriff Cody Carpenter Memorial Fund” at Chambers Bank.  Donations can be made at any Chambers Bank so that the public can assist in the efforts to provide financial support to Sheriff Carpenter’s beneficiaries.  Donations can also be made through the Police Benevolent Foundation by clicking the link below.Donations can also be made through the Police Benevolent Foundation by clicking the link below.  **PLEASE BE SURE TO DESIGNATE THAT YOU WOULD LIKE YOUR DONATION TO GO TO THE “SHERIFF CODY CARPENTER MEMORIAL FUND” IN THE DESIGNATION BOX ON THE DONATION FORM.

CLICK HERE TO DONATE TO THE “SHERIFF CODY CARPENTER MEMORIAL FUND”

The Police Benevolent Foundation is also taking donations via text for the “Sheriff Cody Carpenter Memorial Fund.” You can help by texting the phrase COPS CODY to 85944.

A one-time donation of $10 will be added to your mobile phone bill. Msg & data rates may apply. Available on Verizon Wireless, AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile. Must be 18 or older and have authorization of account holder. Donations benefit The Police Benevolent Foundation, collected by Innogive Foundation. Subject to terms: igfn.org/t. Privacy policy: igfn.org/p. Text STOP to 85944 to stop; Text HELP to 85944 for help.

The PBF is asking everyone to please pass this information along to friends and family. Sheriff Carpenter’s family will need all of us to rally behind them in these hard times.

We will be having a fundraiser at the 34th Annual Lum and Abner Festival in Mena AR on Saturday, June 8th from 8:00am till 6:00pm.  Here is a link on the festival:   http://www.visitmena.com/lumNabner.asp


The Police Benevolent Foundation and Arkansas PBA set to aid the family of fallen Faulkner County Sheriff’s Deputy Hans Fifer

The Police Benevolent Foundation, Inc. and the Arkansas Division of the Southern States PBA are in mourning for one of their own and rallying behind the family of Faulkner County Sheriff’s Deputy Hans Fifer. Deputy Fifer suffered a fatal heart attack after completing a SWAT training program.  Fifer complained of shortness of breath after completing a physical activity program that consisted of running, jumping and pushups. The shortness of breath turned into chest pains and he later collapsed.  Deputy Fifer was taken to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.  Hans Fifer was a true hero and will be missed by all that knew him.

The Police Benevolent Foundation has established the “Deputy Hans Fifer Memorial Fund” at Regions Bank.  Donations can be made at any Region’s Bank through to the Police Benevolent Foundation’s account by designating the donation to the  “Deputy Hans Fifer Memorial Fund.” Donations can also be made through the Police Benevolent Foundation by clicking the link below.**PLEASE BE SURE TO DESIGNATE THAT YOU WOULD LIKE YOUR DONATION TO GO TO THE “DEPUTY HANS FIFER MEMORIAL FUND” IN THE DESIGNATION BOX ON THE DONATION FORM.

CLICK HERE TO DONATE TO THE “DEPUTY HANS FIFER MEMORIAL FUND”

The Police Benevolent Foundation is also taking donations via text message in memory of Deputy Fifer. You can help Deputy Fifer’s family by texting, “COPS FIFER” to 85944.  A one-time donation of $10 will be added to your mobile phone bill. Msg & data rates may apply. Available on Verizon Wireless, AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile. Must be 18 or older and have authorization of account holder. Donations benefit The Police Benevolent Foundation, collected by Innogive Foundation. Subject to terms: igfn.org/t. Privacy policy: igfn.org/p. Text STOP to 85944 to stop; Text HELP to 85944 for help. The PBF is asking everyone to please pass this information along to friends and family. Deputy Fifer’s family will need everyone to rally behind them during this difficult time.

Arkansas PBA Division President Scott Hicks said, “Our thoughts, prayers, and support go out to Deputy Fifer’s family during this difficult time. We are now calling on the community that he served to step up and help his family in their time of need.  Deputy Fifer was a true hero.”

It is with a heavy heart that the PBF and ARPBA ask for the help of the community, both locally and nationally, to aid in efforts to provide much needed support to Deputy Fifer’s family in this time of distress.

UPDATE:  Fundraiser on Monday, April 22, 2013.  The ARPBA will be taken donations at the Walmarts in Conway, AR on Monday, April 22, 2013
8am-8pm
Walmart 3900 Dave Ward Dr Conway (501) 328-9570
and
Walmart 1155 U.S. 65 Conway (501) 329-0023

The Police Benevolent Foundation and Arkansas PBA set to aid the family of fallen Fifth Judicial District Drug Task Force Director Larry Johnson

johnsonThe Police Benevolent Foundation, Inc. and the Arkansas Division of the Southern States PBA are in mourning for one of their own and rallying behind the family of Fifth Judicial District Drug Task Force Director Larry Johnson. Director Johnson suffered a fatal heart attack while involved in a foot pursuit with a parolee in Clarksville, Arkansas. Director Larry Johnson was a true hero and will be missed by all that knew him.

The Police Benevolent Foundation has established a “Larry Johnson Memorial Fund” at Regions Bank.  Donations can be made at any Regions Bank through to the Police Benevolent Foundation’s account by designating the donation to the  “Larry Johnson Memorial Fund” Donations can also be made through the Police Benevolent Foundation’s website using the link below and designating that you would like your donation to go to the “Larry Johnson Memorial Fund.”  **PLEASE BE SURE TO DESIGNATE THAT YOU WOULD LIKE YOUR DONATION TO GO TO THE “LARRY JOHNSON MEMORIAL FUND” IN THE DESIGNATION BOX ON THE DONATION FORM.

CLICK HERE TO DONATE TO THE “LARRY JOHNSON MEMORIAL FUND”

The Police Benevolent Foundation is also taking donations via text message in memory of Director Johnson. You can help Director Johnson’s family by texting, “COPS JOHNSON” to 85944.  A one-time donation of $10 will be added to your mobile phone bill. Msg & data rates may apply. Available on Verizon Wireless, AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile. Must be 18 or older and have authorization of account holder. Donations benefit The Police Benevolent Foundation, collected by Innogive Foundation. Subject to terms: igfn.org/t. Privacy policy: igfn.org/p. Text STOP to 85944 to stop; Text HELP to 85944 for help.
The PBF is asking everyone to please pass this information along to friends and family. Director Johnson’s family will need everyone to rally behind them during this difficult time.

Arkansas PBA Division President Scott Hicks said, “Our thoughts, prayers, and support go out to Director Johnson’s family during this difficult time. We are now calling on the community that he served to step up and help his family in this very difficult time.  Director Johnson was a true hero.”

It is with a heavy heart that the PBF and ARPBA ask for the help of the community, both locally and nationally, to aid in efforts to provide much needed support to Director Johnson’s family in this time of distress.


Alabama PBF Tag Update

As we continue our efforts to obtain a state PBA tag, there has been some misinformation and confession concerning the application process for the tag and the membership fee.  Applying for a PBA tag is a simple process. Below you will find detailed instructions on how to apply and what needs to happen in order for the ALPBA to achieve our goal.

Go to your local tag registration office with your PBA membership I.D. card (contact SSPBA if you do not have a I.D. card or click here to login to your account online and request a new membership card) and ask for a “Distinctive Tag Application.”

Once the application is completed, you will be required to pay a $50.00 deposit. Be sure to keep your original receipt for your tag. The state will only except the original receipt once we reach our goal to 250 tags. PBA will be notified of all members who have purchased a tag.  Tags may be picked up at your local tag office.

If we do not reach our goal, all deposits will be sent to the SSPBA home office where refunds of your deposits will be sent back to you.

I hope this clarifies some of the confusion and misunderstanding with our tag issue. Please help the Police Benevolent Foundation with this important project, so Alabama can help families through our death benefit and scholarship programs.  If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your local chapter president or you can contact me directly at dscott@sspba.org. I’ll be glad to help you with a better understanding of this process and address any concerns you may have.

The Alabama Police Benevolent Association is offering its members the opportunity to purchase an official ALPBA license plate. The license plates are $50, and $45 of each tag purchase will benefit the Police Benevolent Foundation ($5 is deducted by the state for tax and administrative fees).  The Police Benevolent Foundation, Inc. is a tax-deductible 501(c)(3) organization established by the Southern States Police Benevolent Association and exists to help the law enforcement officers and their families restore normalcy after a tragedy.


Fellow Officers Helping Lynchburg Officer Fighting Cancer

The Blue Ridge Chapter of the Virginia PBA is set to aid fellow member Jordan Spaeth started with the Lynchburg Police Department several months ago, after working for three years with the City of Bedford Police Department. Jordan is originally from New Jersey, but came to Virginia to attend Liberty University, where he met his wife, Katie.

Jordan was recently diagnosed with cancer and the Blue Ridge Chapter wants to help him and his family in this time of need.  He is currently undergoing chemotherapy in Lynchburg, VA. Jordan and his wife, Katie, have elected to use Johns Hopkins University Hospital in Baltimore Maryland for any additional treatment, which is roughly a four hour drive from Lynchburg. The bills are going to start adding up for this officer and his family, so his fellow PBA brothers want to help.

When Jordan was diagnosed with cancer, he was scheduled for an immediate surgery. The surgeon found a second tumor that was removed at the same time. Although both tumors were removed successfully, there were still some causes for concern. So, the doctor had those tumors sent for a biopsy. Unfortunately, a recent CAT scan did not reveal the results that they had hoped. The scan indicated that the cancer has advanced into a lymph node in both his stomach and his chest. They are grateful that they didn’t see multiple lymph nodes effected, but at the same time concerned that it has already advanced into his stomach and chest.

Because of this recent diagnosis, Jordan’s wife, Katie, has decided that she will not be continuing her final semester of law school so that she can be with Jordan during his treatment.

Jordan and Katie and their extended family are extremely appreciative of all the support that everyone has given them thus far.

Jordan and Katie need help and the Blue Ridge Chapter of the Virginia PBA (through The Police Benevolent Foundation) will be collecting donations on Officer Spaeth’s behalf. You can go to any Wells Fargo Bank and donate to the Police Benevolent Foundation account designated for the Officer Jordan Spaeth Recovery Fund. You can also make an online donation through the PBF to the Officer Jordan Spaeth Recovery Fund by clicking the link below. **PLEASE BE SURE TO DESIGNATE THAT YOU WOULD LIKE YOUR DONATION TO GO TO THE “JORDAN SPAETH RECOVERY FUND” IN THE DESIGNATION BOX ON THE DONATION FORM.

CLICK HERE TO DONATE TO THE “JORDAN SPAETH RECOVERY FUND”

The VAPBA and the Police Benevolent Foundation appreciate your thoughtful donations to Officer Jordan Spaeth and his family in this time of need.  All donations and funds collected will be given to the Spaeth family to help them during these hard times.


The Police Benevolent Foundation to hold fundraiser for fallen Enterprise Police Chief Randy Boykin at area Lowe’s store

The Police Benevolent Foundation (PBF) and the Mississippi Police Benevolent Association would like to express its deepest sympathy and compassion to the family, friends and fellow law enforcement officers of Enterprise Police Chief Randy Boykin who was hit by a car while directing traffic outside of a local school and later died from his injuries on Tuesday, March 19th. Chief Boykin was a staple in the community and will be missed by all that knew him.
Chief Boykin paid the ultimate sacrifice, and it is with a heavy heart that the PBF asks for the help of the local community to aid in their efforts to provide much needed support for this deputy’s beneficiaries in their time of need.

Members from the East Central Chapter of the Mississippi PBA will be hosting a fundraiser at:

 

Lowe’s Home Improvement Store
100 15th Place South (near Bonita Lakes)
Meridian, MS
Saturday, March 30, 2013
7:00am to 4:00pm

Mississippi PBA Executive Director Tommy Simpson is encouraging all local citizens to come by and make a quick and easy donation to aid the survivors of Police Chief Randy Boykin.  All proceeds collected will go to the “Chief Randy Boykin Memorial Fund” which has been set up through the PBF at Regions Bank.

Donations can also be made directly to the “Chief Randy Boykin Memorial Fund” online through Police Benevolent Foundation by clicking the link below.  All online donations need to be designated to the Chief Randy Boykin Memorial Fund through the PBF’s donation page. Area residents can also make a donation by stopping by any area Region’s Bank through the Police Benevolent Foundation’s account designated for the Chief Randy Boykin Memorial Fund.  All donations made to this memorial fund are tax-deductible and 100% of the money will go to Chief Randy Boykin’s beneficiaries.

**PLEASE BE SURE TO DESIGNATE THAT YOU WOULD LIKE YOUR DONATION TO GO TO THE “CHIEF RANDY BOYKIN MEMORIAL FUND” IN THE DESIGNATION BOX ON THE DONATION FORM.

CLICK HERE TO DONATE TO THE “CHIEF
RANDY BOYKIN MEMORIAL FUND”

The Police Benevolent Foundation is also taking donations via text for the “Chief Randy Boykin Memorial Fund.” You can help by texting the phrase COPS BOYKIN to 85944.  A one-time donation of $10 will be added to your mobile phone bill. Msg & data rates may apply. Available on Verizon Wireless, AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile. Must be 18 or older and have authorization of account holder. Donations benefit The Police Benevolent Foundation, collected by Innogive Foundation. Subject to terms: igfn.org/t. Privacy policy: igfn.org/p. Text STOP to 85944 to stop; Text HELP to 85944 for help. The PBF is asking everyone to please pass this information along to friends and family. Chief Randy Boykin’s family will need all of us to rally behind them in these hard times.


The Police Benevolent Foundation and Mississippi PBA set to aid the family of fallen Enterprise Police Chief Randy Boykin

The Police Benevolent Foundation, Inc. and the Mississippi Division of the Southern States PBA are in mourning for one of their own and rallying behind the family of Enterprise Police Chief Randy Boykin. Chief Boykin was hit by a car while directing traffic outside of a local school and later died from his injuries on Tuesday, March 19th. Chief Boykin was a staple in the community and will be missed by all that knew him.

The Police Benevolent Foundation has established a “Chief Randy Boykin Memorial Fund” at Regions Bank.  Donations can be made at any Regions Bank through the Police Benevolent Foundation to assist in efforts to provide financial support to Chief Boykin’s family in this time of need.  Donations can also be made through the Police Benevolent Foundation by clicking the link below. **PLEASE BE SURE TO DESIGNATE THAT YOU WOULD LIKE YOUR DONATION TO GO TO THE “CHIEF RANDY BOYKIN MEMORIAL FUND” IN THE DESIGNATION BOX ON THE DONATION FORM.

CLICK HERE TO DONATE TO THE “CHIEF
RANDY BOYKIN MEMORIAL FUND”

The Police Benevolent Foundation is also taking donations via text message in memory of Officer Boykin. You can help Officer Wright’s family by texting, “COPS BOYKIN” to 85944.  A one-time donation of $10 will be added to your mobile phone bill. Msg & data rates may apply. Available on Verizon Wireless, AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile. Must be 18 or older and have authorization of account holder. Donations benefit The Police Benevolent Foundation, collected by Innogive Foundation. Subject to terms: igfn.org/t. Privacy policy: igfn.org/p. Text STOP to 85944 to stop; Text HELP to 85944 for help. The PBF is asking everyone to please pass this information along to friends and family. Chief Boykin’s family will need everyone to rally behind them during this difficult time.

Mississippi PBA Division President Chris Skinner said, “Our thoughts, prayers, and support go out to Chief Boykin’s family during this difficult time.  This incident reminds us all of the dangers that law enforcement officers face and the community support that is needed for our brave men and women who protect us every day.”

It is with a heavy heart that the PBF and MSPBA ask for the help of the community, both locally and nationally, to aid in efforts to provide much needed support to Chief Boykin’s family in this time of distress.

The Police Benevolent Foundation, Inc is a tax-deductible 501(c)(3) organization established by the Southern States Police Benevolent Association, Inc. (SSPBA) in 2005.  Established in 1987, SSPBA has been serving its membership for 20 years. SSPBA is not a union. It is an independent association with no national or international affiliations. The Foundation has a Board of Directors elected by the membership of the SSPBA. Foundation expenses are currently absorbed by Southern States PBA, making the Foundation one of very few such entities that gives 100% of the funds received to its intended purpose.

 


The Police Benevolent Foundation and Virginia PBA set to aid critically injured Alexandria Police Officer Peter Laboy

The Police Benevolent Foundation, Inc. and the Virginia Division of the Southern States PBA are rallying behind Alexandria Police Officer Peter Laboy who was shot on February 27th after making a routine traffic stop in Alexandria.  The bullet struck Officer Laboy in the head, critically injuring him.  Officer Laboy was flown to Medstar Washington Hospital where he remains in critical condition.

Peter Laboy is an Alexandria Police Officer with 17 years of experience and has been a PBA member since November of 2006. Officer Laboy has been on the Alexandria Motor unit for the past 6 years.  The Police Benevolent Foundation has established a fund titled the “Officer Peter Laboy Recovery Fund” to assist the Laboy family during this difficult time. Donations can be made to this fund by clicking the link below.

DONATE NOW!!

You can also help Officer Laboy and his family by texting the phrase COPS LABOY to 85944.  A one-time donation of $10 will be added to your mobile phone bill. Msg & data rates may apply. Available on Verizon Wireless, AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile. Must be 18 or older and have authorization of account holder. Donations benefit The Police Benevolent Foundation, collected by Innogive Foundation. Subject to terms: igfn.org/t. Privacy policy: igfn.org/p. Text STOP to 85944 to stop; Text HELP to 85944 for help. The PBF is asking everyone to please pass this information along to friends and family. Officer Laboy will need all of us to rally behind him during these hard times

According to Sean McGowan, Executive Director of the Virginia PBA, “Our thoughts, prayers, and support go out to Officer Laboy and his family during this difficult time.  This incident reminds us all of the dangers that law enforcement officers face and the community support that is needed for our brave men and women who protect us every day.”

It is with a heavy heart that the PBF and VAPBA ask for the help of the community, both locally and nationally, to aid in its efforts to provide much needed support to this officer in his time of need.  All donations made to the “”Officer Peter Laboy Recovery Fund” are 100% tax deductible and all proceeds go directly to the Laboy family.

The Police Benevolent Foundation, Inc is a tax-deductible 501(c)(3) organization established by the Southern States Police Benevolent Association, Inc. (SSPBA) in 2005.  Established in 1987, SSPBA has been serving its membership for 20 years. SSPBA is not a union. It is an independent association with no national or international affiliations. The Foundation has a Board of Directors elected by the membership of the SSPBA. Foundation expenses are currently absorbed by Southern States PBA, making the Foundation one of very few such entities that gives 100% of the funds received to its intended purpose.

 


The Bruce Potter Recovery Fund

In a blink of an eye life can change dramatically. That is exactly what happened on October 14, 2012 to Officer Bruce Potter and his family.  Bruce Potter, a City of Munford Police Department Reserve Officer since September 2008 and a United States Navy veteran, was diagnosed with stage 4 brain cancer. He has undergone 5 weeks of chemotherapy and radiation that were not successful in shrinking the tumors. He has had major seizures and has lost the use of the left side of his body.  Officer Potter is now receiving rehabilitation for the partial paralysis at Health South Rehab Hospital in Memphis, TN.

Unfortunately, Bruce’s prognosis isn’t favorable. Bruce will leave behind a loving wife and two children (high school and college aged). Because of the mounting medical expenses and living expenses associated with his rehabilitation efforts, the Potter family is in dire need of support from the community.  His wife has remained by his side throughout his medical struggles and she has logged more than 3000 miles in travel to and from medical facilities.

Officer Potter and his family need help. The Potter family mortgage is $170,000 with an average of $400 a month in utilities, not to mention to numerous expenses for medical produces and traveling to and from medical facilities for treatments.

The Southern States Police Benevolent Association and The Police Benevolent Foundation will be collecting donations on Officer Potter’s behalf. You can go to any Region’s Bank and donate to the Officer Bruce Potter Recovery Fund. You can also make an online donation through the PBF and designating your donation to the Officer Bruce Potter Recovery Fund by clicking HERE.  To ensure your online donation reaches the Potter family, please be sure to set set the donation designation to the Officer Bruce Potter Recovery Fund on the donation page.

DONATE ONLINE NOW

The SSPBA and the Police Benevolent Foundation appreciate your thoughtful donations to Officer Bruce Potter and his family in this time of need.

Local Fundraiser Update:
The Home Plate Cafe’ in Munford, TN will be serving dinner and hosting a silent auction on the night of February 26, 2013 from 6PM-8PM.  All proceeds will go to the family and this event is sponsored by the Munford Police Department and Daly Auto Parts.


2013 Virginia PTSD Seminar Wrap-up

Alexandria_screening_sep_2012_500px

The Police Benevolent Foundation’s first Behind the Badge Seminar for 2013 was held in Hampton, Virginia on January 25, 2013. The seminar was a great success and a great start for a new year. Sergeant Kristine Wright and staff of the Hampton Police Training Division were able to secure the Sandy Bottom Nature Park Center for our day of training. The police training staff and the staff of Sandy Bottom Nature Park saw that all needs of the eighty-five (85) attendees were met.

The seminar attendance was so good because the Police Training Division required attendance of personnel in special assignments and also sent out invitations to surrounding law enforcement agencies. Attendees, both sworn and unsworn came from the following agencies in Virginia: Hampton Police Department, Chesapeake PD, Virginia Beach PD, Newport News PD.

Jim Sewell, Ph.D. and Tim Rutledge, both former law enforcement officers and experts in the area of police stress and police suicides, provided the lecture for the day. Both provided personal examples of law enforcement personnel that exhibited signs of stress and provided ways to recognize stress and effectively deal with it. Both were given very high remarks during the evaluation process. Additionally, when questioned individually, the majority of officers indicated they wanted to see a peer support group that was not affiliated with their agency.

If you are interested in seeing this free training come to your area, contact Terry Nowell at tnowell@sspba.org or cell 678-333-4150.

 

Read More at Behind the Badge 


NC Police Benevolent Association Holding Two Raffles to raise funds for the Police Benevolent Foundation

The North Carolina Police Benevolent Association is currently holding two separate raffles for sports memorabilia items to benefit the Police Benevolent Foundation. Founded in 2005, the PBF is a 501 C3, and was created to help families that have lost a loved one in the line of duty along with other initiatives. 100% of the donated monies go to the intended purpose and are tax deductible.

The first item is a framed autographed Tyler Hansbrough jersey and picture. Hansbrough currently plays for the Indiana Pacers of the NBA. Hansbrough led the UNC Tarheels to the 2009 National Championship and he is the ACC’s all-time leading scorer. Hansbrough was a unanimous selection for the 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009 Atlantic Coast Conference All Conference Team, 2006 ACC Freshman of the Year, and 2008 ACC Player of the Year. In 2008, he won the Wooden Award and was the National Player of the Year. His jersey (number 50) was retired on February 10, 2010 during a Duke-North Carolina rivalry game.

The second item is a framed autographed jersey of Josh Hamilton. The piece also includes two autographed Sports Illustrated covers. Hamilton currently plays for the Los Angles Angels of Anaheim and is a five time MLB All-star. He won the American League MVP in 2010 and is one of only 16 players to ever hit 16 home runs in a game.

Tickets are $5 a piece…or 5 for $20….or 10 for $30. You can enter one or both drawings The drawing is March 9th at 7:30 p.m. You do not have to be present to win. If you would like to purchase tickets please click on the following link. If you are a NCPBA member and would like to help the Foundation by selling tickets please contact NC Division President Randy Byrd @  rbyrd@sspba.org.

Click here to buy raffle tickets

hansbrough
hamilton


2nd Annual Race For The Fallen Was A Success

The 2nd Annual Race for the Fallen Half Marathon to benefit the Police Benevolent Foundation was held on Saturday, September 15th, 2012 at Red Top Mountain State Park. Each year, more than 140 officers leave for work and do not return home to the families who love and support them. The harsh reality is that the men and women of our local police departments who have chosen to accept the honor of protecting our communities often face deadly consequences that leave their families in dire straits. When we lose a member of the police force, we lose an experienced, trained community hero who gave his or her life to protect the community. When we lose an officer – a family loses a husband, a wife, a sister or brother… a child loses a father or a mother. The Race for the Fallen Half Marathon honors these officers and their families.

The 2nd Annual Race for the Fallen Half Marathon was a huge success. The race had almost 200 participants and raised significant funds to benefit the Police Benevolent Foundation. The Race for the Fallen would like to thank all of its sponsors and volunteers. The Police Benevolent Foundation, Inc. exists to help the law enforcement officers and their families restore normalcy after a tragedy. The Race for the Fallen Half Marathon was created to honor the brave men and women who risk their lives every day to protect our families, and it is a tribute to the officers who gave their lives to protect our community.

The Race for the Fallen and the Police Benevolent Foundation would like to congratulate all of the runners that participated. The first place overall winner was Alec Blenis, age 18. He finished in 1:24:45 and had a pace of 6:28 per mile. All race results can be found at www.zuluracing.com. You can view photos from the race by going to www.truespeedphoto.com and searching for Race for the Fallen.

The date has already been set for next year’s Race for the Fallen Half Marathon. It will take place on Saturday September 21, 2013 at Red Top Mountain State Park and you can register now at www.raceforthefallen.com. Be sure to take advantage of the lowest registration price, $45 until March 1st.

Read on Yahoo News


2012 Arkansas PTSD Seminar Wrap-up

In case you have been hiding under a rock and haven’t heard yet, the Police Benevolent Foundation is sponsoring suicide prevention seminars titled Behind the Badge. These seminars are approximately eight hours in length and cover numerous topics related to law enforcement stressors, stress management and suicide prevention.

In September 2012, the Arkansas PBA hosted our Behind the Badge Seminar in two locations. Our speakers have long and distinguished careers in law enforcement. Doctor James D. Sewell started his career as a campus police officer at Florida State University. He has been a Chief of Police in Florida and the Assistant Director of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Tim Rutledge also started his career in local law enforcement and is now the Director of Training for the Regional Counter-drug Training Academy (RCTA) in Meridian, Mississippi. Tim is also the founder and director of the Mississippi Law Enforcement Alliance for Peer Support (LEAPS).

On Monday, September, 10, law enforcement officers from Sherwood PD, Benton County SO, Fayetteville PD, and Arkansas State Patrol attended the seminar held at the North Western Arkansas Law Enforcement Training Academy in Elm Springs, and on September 11, fifteen officers representing five different departments attended the seminar held at the Conway Police Department. Some of the topics attendees were exposed to include: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), how to recognize and deal with stress and how to talk with a fellow officer who is possibly suicidal. Attendees were also able to evaluate their personal and professional life and determine their risk of being a victim of significant stress. Officers were able to talk about PTSD and suicides that they were familiar with.

We thank the administration and training staff and administration of North Western Law Enforcement Training Academy and the Conway Police Department for their generous donation of their facilities and their support of the Arkansas law enforcement community.


VAPBA Folks & Spokes Charity Bike Ride

Come show your support for local law enforcement officers by participating in the first annual Folks and Spokes Charity Bike Ride. This is a collaborative event organized by the Virginia PBA and the Backyard Grill Restaurant.

Date: Saturday 10/20/2012
Departure time: 12:00 PM (Noon)
Ride will take about 1.5 to 2 hours long
Food and drink will be available at the after party
Riders – $25
All others- $20
Immediately following the ride, participants and spectators are invited to attend an after party at the Backyard Grill Restaurant. The after includes a buffet and 2 free drinks.

13999 Metrotech Drive
Chantilly, VA 20151
Phone: (703) 802-6400.

Registrations can also be mailed to:

The Police Benevolent Foundation, Inc
2155 Highway 42 South
McDonough, GA 30252

Must be mailed by October 5, 2012


ARPBA Behind the Badge – A PTSD And Suicide Outreach & Prevention Seminar September 10th and 11th

The Arkansas Division of the Southern States PBA, Inc. and the Police Benevolent Foundation, Inc. have partnered with In Harm’s Way and the Mississippi L.E.A.P.S. programs to educate law enforcement administrators, law enforcement officers and their family members about the hidden dangers of PTSD and its connection to the high rate of law enforcement suicide.


Remembering William Wright

By Jonathan Austin
Yancey County News
Published April 19, 2012

In William Wright’s world, everything had a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven.

He had aspirations and dreams. He wanted to marry his sweetheart. He wanted to be a father. He wanted a career in tactical law enforcement. He wanted to build and operate a successful farm.

But his family says everything took a back seat unless he felt led by his Lord. “He was waiting for the Lord to tell him it was time to do these things,” his sister, Mary Ann Cramp, said.

So he tried to live a righteous life, his father says, caring for family and friends, planning an August wedding, and doting on two nieces who loved him dearly.

And when he died April 11 at age 31, just two days after suffering a head injury in a fall at work at the Mountain View Correctional Institution, he left a gap that will be hard to fill.

But if he could speak now, by all appearances he would say: “Everything has a season.”

Mary Ann says William grew into adulthood feeling people had to “pay back” to the community in return for the joy of living in such a wonderful world. “The Lord came first, then family, then work.”

“He was a fantastic boy,” said his father, Archie Lee Wright, as he sat talking at his kitchen table Wednesday night in the Jack’s Creek community.

William helped care for his grandparents and helped his father, a Vietnam War Marine veteran who has suffered strokes and sometimes uses a motorized scooter to get around. “He helped me and his mom; all he did was go to work and go to church and help around here.”

He was a shy man but good looking, and his sister laughed when asked if girls asked about her brother. “Oh, yes,” she replied, but William said the Lord would tell him when it was right.

“He believed in old-style courtship.”

He had known Kelly Renee Peterson for years and considered her a close friend, but she is the one who had to be bold and actually suggest that a romance was building between the two.

“I was working with him and he took me home one night. We were laughing and having a good time,” she recalls. “Right in the middle of it I grabbed him and leaned up and kissed him.”

William took her on home and came back to talk with his sister. He was interested in Kelly, he told her, but he needed to pray to know the right thing to do.

“Do you feel this is right?” Mary Ann remembers asking him. “Do you feel the Lord is leading you to this?”

“Yes,” he said with conviction.

Kelly remembers how shy and reserved he was. “He once said, ‘I always wanted to hold hands with somebody I loved,’ “she said Wednesday. “I just reached over and held his hand.”

They dated, and made plans to marry. But nothing was rushed. Their dates were mostly hanging out together while doing other things, though William and Kelly made special time for walks out around his parents’ home. They planned on children, but “he wanted the timing perfect. He said it had to go in order,” his sister said.

Meanwhile, he doted on Lee Ann, 10, and Sarah Elizabeth, 6. He loved being an uncle – they called him Nuckle – and Lee Ann enjoyed sitting with him watching movies. “We’d watch movies and he’d make me popcorn and get me a cold drink,” Lee Ann remembers.

Sarah Elizabeth – “She’s named Elizabeth because Nuckle wanted that,” her mom added – said he would sneak her treats “like chocolates filled with caramel and barbecue chips.”

“He wouldn’t leave the hospital when these kids were born,” Mary Ann said. “He adored them.”

And he was loved by family, friends and neighbors.

“He was a unique, special, rare individual,” his father said. “You don’t see people like that much anymore.”

His mother, Erlene Wright, seemed hard pressed to speak much, so soon after his death. She told a story about how he was “a fireball” as a little boy, but he responded to firm love and never forgot the importance of that love. “He was a special son,” she said.

After his fall at the prison William was taken by ambulance to the hospital in Spruce Pine, where he was admitted. He had a CAT scan, his sister says, and was admitted for observation, but everything seemed fine.

Discharged the next day, he went home and seemed OK, his father said. Then something happened. He got up, walked out of the room, and died. He was buried – with his Bible – on Saturday.

“Right now we don’t know what happened,” Archie Wright said. “We don’t want to dwell on why.”


The Police Benevolent Foundation is set to aid the family of fallen Bladen County Deputy Dewayne Hester

Deputy Dewayne Charles Hester

The Police Benevolent Foundation, Inc. and the North Carolina Division of the Southern States PBA are rallying behind the family of Bladen County Sheriff’s Deputy Dewayne Charles Hester who died after a car crash while responding to a call on Friday, June 8, 2012.   Deputy Hester was 39 years old and leaves behind his wife and two children.
The Police Benevolent Foundation has established a “Deputy Dewayne Hester Memorial Fund” at Wells Fargo Bank.  Donations can be made at any Wells Fargo Bank under the Police Benevolent Foundation’s account to assist in efforts to provide financial support to Deputy Hester’s family in this time of need.  Bank officials will need to look up the Police Benevolent Foundation and choose the “Deputy Dewayne Hester Memorial Fund” in order to designate the funds to this memorial fund.   Donations can also be made through the Police Benevolent Foundation by clicking here and designating your donation to the Dewayne Hester Fund.
The Police Benevolent Foundation is also taking donations via text message in memory of Deputy Hester. You can help Deputy Hester’s family by texting, “COPS HESTER” to 85944.  A one-time donation of $10 will be added to your mobile phone bill. Msg & data rates may apply. Available on Verizon Wireless, AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile. Must be 18 or older and have authorization of account holder. Donations benefit The Police Benevolent Foundation, collected by Innogive Foundation. Subject to terms: igfn.org/t. Privacy policy: igfn.org/p. Text STOP to 85944 to stop; Text HELP to 85944 for help. The PBF is asking everyone to please pass this information along to friends and family. Deputy Hester’s family will need everyone to rally behind them during this difficult time.
North Carolina PBA Division President Randy Byrd said, “Our thoughts, prayers, and support go out to Deputy Hester’s family during this difficult time.  This incident reminds us all of the dangers that law enforcement officers face and the community support that is needed for our brave men and women who protect us every day.”
It is with a heavy heart that the PBF and NCPBA ask for the help of the community, both locally and nationally, to aid in efforts to provide much needed support to this deputy’s family in this time of distress.

Attention!! ARPBA Gun Raffle

* Due to ATF regulations, eligibility is reserved for Arkansas residents

Win a Glock 27 .40 CAL. Pistol courtesy of the Arkansas PBA and Bulldog USA, LLC. or a Ruger 10/22 .22 CAL. Rifle or a Sightmark 4×50 Eclipse Night Vision Monocular. Enter for your chance to win one of these magnificently crafted pieces.

TICKETS: $2/EACH OR $10/6-PACK  The drawing for this raffle will be held on July 7, 2012, and the winner will be notified by phone.  At that time, we will make arrangements to put the prize package in their hands.  Raffle tickets are $2.00 each or 6 for $10.00.

Proceeds go to the Police Benevolent Foundation.  The Foundation awards scholarships to children of law enforcement officers, provides assistance to law enforcement officers who are stuck by natural or manmade disasters and raises money for families of officers killed in the line of duty. Don’t wait. Enter the raffle today. There is no easier way to support a great cause.

You can enter for a chance to win this great prize package by
CLICKING HERE

You can also purchase tickets by contacting your local chapter president or Sam Keller, AR Division Executive Director skeller@sspba.org or 501-733-8250.

Thanks for your support.

*  The winner is randomly selected via a computer generated program.  PBA and PBF employees are not eligible to participate.

 

 


PBA Member tells compelling story and offers heartfelt thanks to those who saved his life and helped him return to duty

Chad in hospital bed

My name is Chad Penland. I work for the Cary Police Department, assigned to the Traffic Safety Team Motorcycle Unit and I am a motorcycle crash survivor.

On July 15th, 2011, my day started out like any other day on the job as a police officer. However, before this work day would come to a close, my way of life as I had known it for 32 years would be changed forever. On this date, at 4:57 pm, I was involved in an on duty motorcycle crash with a full size pick-up truck. As I was proceeding through an intersection in pursuit of a violator, with my emergency equipment on, the driver of the vehicle turned left in front of me at the intersection of Morrisville Carpenter Rd and NC Hwy 55. I collided with the vehicle and was thrown from my bike. I received major injuries as a result of the collision. Some of those injuries were near fatal. A nurse who was traveling the same route witnessed the accident and immediately came to my aid. She opened my obstructed airway and provided word of comfort until EMS arrived. I remember nothing of the events of that day from the time the accident occurred. My mind ‘woke up’ again four days later when I found myself in Duke University Medical Center. It was only then that I learned I had been involved in a crash and had come within mere minutes of dying on the highway. Over the next twelve days, I underwent numerous surgeries to repair my broken jaw, broken arm and the de-gloving injury received to my right arm.

Before leaving the hospital I was told of the seriousness of my injuries by some of the medical doctors that were treating me. Some of them were also there the day I came into the emergency room by way of ambulance. On the day of the accident my injuries were so severe they immediately called for Duke’s ‘Life Flight’ helicopter to transport me. This plan was changed, however, when it was realized that there was no time to spare. The decision was made to transport me by ambulance. I also learned that upon my arrival to Duke that I was still conscious and asked questions about the seriousness of my injuries. I also wanted to know if I was going to die. According to these doctors, I had about a 90% mortality rate and they were concerned about me living through the night. The force of the collision and the trauma exerted upon my body was nearly equal to me being dropped off a three story building. One doctor told me that had it not been for the nurse that came to my aid that I would have died in less than three minutes. I would have drowned in my own blood due to the severity of my broken jaw and facial injuries. He said he hoped one day I got to meet the woman who was now known as the ‘Angel in Orange’ for the orange shirt she was wearing on the day she saved my life.

Two weeks after being discharged from the hospital, I met the woman who had saved my life that day as I lay dying on the highway. Her name is Jessica Elliott and the events that brought her to me that day are amazing and a true testament to the work of our Lord and Savior. Jessica had left her home in Lynchburg, Virginia on that day as she headed to her brothers home in Cary. Before this day, she had never taken the route that she took on Highway 55. On the day of my accident, she decided to take Highway 55 to try and avoid some of the congestion on I-40. She ended up two cars behind me as the collision in the intersection occurred. She was traveling with her two year old daughter in the vehicle when she left her vehicle to come to my side. By all accounts, her actions saved my life. Even more ironic is the fact that when Jessica was seven years old her dad saved a man’s life that was injured in a motorcycle accident. He left Jessica in his vehicle that day as he went to save that individuals life as well. It is also incredible to note that Jessica’s dad retired as a Virginia State Trooper.

Jessica and I continue to keep in touch and have developed a bond that can’t be broken. Our families are now close and have been woven together as one. Jessica has met many in my police family as well and has attended two ceremonies where our story has been told. I will always be grateful to Jessica because without her I wouldn’t be here to be part of this incredible story.
There are others…so many others that I want to thank. First and foremost, I want to thank the Lord above for guiding the events that day so that I could be here to contribute another day. I want to thank the people who were in the intersection of Morrisville Carpenter Rd and NC Highway 55 that day. These people literally took the shirts off of their backs and ripped them into rags to try and control and stop my bleeding. I want to thank the fifty plus police officers from Cary, Apex, Morrisville, Holly Springs, Wake County Sheriff’s Office, and the NC State Highway Patrol who came to assist that day. I want to thank John Barielle, Christian Hennick and Kevin Pollock who were working with Cary EMS and responded to the scene that day. They were tireless in their efforts as they worked on me all the way to Duke University Medical Center. I want to thank the man I know only by the nickname of ‘Duck’. ‘Duck’ works for the Morrisville Fire Department and drove the EMS unit to the hospital while they attended to me in the back. All of these professionals assured me when they came to see me a few weeks later that my death was never an option for them in the back of that ambulance. I want to thank the of medical doctors at Duke who stayed until 2am the next morning operating on me and doing all they could to save my life.

I want to thank the motor units for the Raleigh Police Department, Morrisville Police Department, UNC-Chapel Hill Campus Police and the NC State Highway Patrol who came to see me on a regular basis and to check on my family. I want to thank everyone in the Cary Police Department who filled the hospital for the entire time I was there and kept reassuring my family that I was strong and a fighter and that everything was going to be ok. I want to thank Lieutenant Tracey Barker, commander of the Traffic Safety Team of the Cary Police Department. Lt. Barker came to see me and my family everyday that I was in the hospital. These visits included multiple visits on the same day. He even came and picked me up on the day I was discharged and took me home. I would like to thank Dr George Edwards Jr., Jo Cullingford and the staff at the Raleigh Hand Center who treated me for seven months of physical therapy for my right arm. They promised to do everything they could do to return my function in my arm to as close to normal as possible. These incredible individuals never gave up on me even during those trying days of self doubt. I want to thank Dr. Jeffrey Jelic and his staff who oversaw the reconstruction of my jaw. Because of their expertise and commitment my jaw has been repaired to the point that it will be normal again. I want to thank Dr. J.D. Smith and his entire staff at Smith Orthodontics. I want to thank Dr. Bruce Howardsby. Dr. Howardsby inspired me to mentally prepare for the challenges ahead and that adversity can be overcome if you focus positively on the task at hand. I want to thank Dr. Samuel DeAngelo who ensured that I got the best possible care for my facial injuries. He has continued to provide me insight and knowledge about my injuries. I would like to thank the members of the Cary Chapter of the NC Police Benevolent Association; especially the Board of Directors. The Cary Chapter’s efforts led to a fund that was set up through the Police Benevolent Foundation. The PBF was able to get immediate financial support to my family as I recovered from my injuries. I would like to thank Randy Byrd who made sure that my family and I had everything we needed even before we could think of it or needed it. I would like to thank Maggie Watkins who was my nurse case manager for workers compensation. Maggie made me a promise in the hospital that if I wanted to return to work she would see that I got the best doctors and surgeons the State of North Carolina had to offer. She said this one day as I was just starting to wake up. After she had made it I remember her saying to someone in the room, “He will probably never remember me being here.” I did remember what she said and I still do. Even though Maggie believed the promise she made me had fallen on deaf ears, she was unwavering in her commitment to keep it. For Maggie, a promise made is a promise kept. Six months later I was able to tell her that I remembered the promise that she had made and that I would always appreciate everything she had done for me. And finally I would like to thank my parents Roger and Linda and my beautiful girlfriend Misty McGee. Not only have they been there to care for me but have supported my decision to return to work and the bike. I am so fortunate to have them in my life.

On February 16, 2012, seven months and one day after the accident, I was released by all my medical doctors to return to full and active duty status with the Cary Police Department. All of my doctors called my recovery nothing short of amazing.

In closing, I wish you knew what it means to me to be able to write this letter that you are reading today. I wish you knew the people I have met along this journey who not only excel in their chosen career, but as human beings. I wish you knew how much people really do care for law enforcement officers and the job that we do. I wish you knew how grateful that I am to be able to return to my chosen profession….to do what I love to do…

*Chad is originally from Burnsville, NC and completed Basic Law Enforcement Training at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College before beginning his law enforcement career with the Burnsville Police Department. He transferred to the Cary Police department in 2003. Chad is currently assigned to the Traffic Safety Team as a motorcycle officer. Chad is a member of the Police Benevolent Association and the Cary chapter.


MSPBA Behind the Badge – A PTSD And Suicide Outreach & Prevention Seminar July 16th and 17th 2012

The Mississippi Division of the Southern States PBA, Inc. and the Police Benevolent Foundation, Inc. have partnered with In Harm’s Way and the Mississippi L.E.A.P.S. programs to educate law enforcement administrators, law enforcement officers and their family members about the hidden dangers of PTSD and its connection to the high rate of law enforcement suicide.


Virginia: Putting the breaks on PTSD

The Virginia PBA and the Police Benevolent Foundation hosted a second in what will be a series of PTSD and suicide prevention seminars on March 28th.  The Behind the Badge program, which was created with a purpose of combating PTSD and reducing the incidences of law enforcement suicide, is a collaborative effort with the In Harm’s Way and Mississippi L.E.A.P.S. programs headquartered in St. Petersburg, Florida and Meridian, Mississippi respectfully.  This event was organized thanks to the interests and efforts of Mark Geier and Lt. Mark Posch – both from the Norfolk Police Department.  Geier, after attending a previous Behind the Badge seminar, realized that it would be a valuable resource for the Norfolk district. He enlisted the help of Lt. Posch and the two secured the use of the Norfolk district station.

Most of the officers who attended the event were public servants from the local police jurisdictions.  Many traveled as far as Richmond to attend.  Because of the severity of the subject matter and the prevalence of suicide within the law enforcement profession, the Foundation works hard to include family members, friends, and administrative personnel in all of our seminars.  Without making a concerted effort to include the peers and familial relations, the efforts to reverse this growing trend of self destruction will be much more difficult.

The most common impressions created by the seminar that (1) law enforcement suicide is a much larger problem than expected, (2) there is a great need for exposure of the ill effects of PTSD and its linkage to suicide, and finally (3) work must be done to reverse the growing trend of law enforcement suicide.

If you would like more information about the Behind the Badge program, or if your department is interested in hosting a seminar, please contact the PBF.  You can also visit our website to find a collection of resources and additional information about this hidden epidemic.  All of us must do our part to affect the change.  Suicide is preventable.