U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan Recognizes National Police Week

ATLANTA – In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement. This year, the week is observed Sunday, May 12, 2024, through Saturday, May 18, 2024.

“Every day, law enforcement officers selflessly risk their lives to help protect our families, friends, and neighbors, and all while facing unforeseen dangers,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan. “We are grateful for the dedication and bravery of these men and women and their commitment to public safety.”

In 1962, U.S. President John F. Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices.  The National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Fund’s preliminary report indicates that 136 law enforcement officers died in the line of duty in 2023.

During National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty, and commitment to keeping our communities safe. Here in the Northern District of Georgia we also solemnly commemorate the five officers who tragically died in the line of duty within the past year:

• Sergeant Marc Andrew McIntyre, Spalding County Sheriff's Office, End of Watch: December 29, 2023
• Officer Kenya D. Galloway, Atlanta Police Department, End of Watch: January 4, 2024
• Deputy Sheriff Eric A. Minix, Coweta County Sheriff's Office, End of Watch: January 4, 2024
• Trooper Jimmy Cenescar, Georgia State Patrol, End of Watch: January 28, 2024
• Trooper First Class Chase Winston Redner, Georgia State Patrol, End of Watch: February 20, 2024

Each year, the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Fund in Washington, D.C. also hosts an Annual Candlelight Vigil to memorialize those who sacrificed their lives. The names of hundreds of officers killed in the line of duty are engraved on the walls of the Memorial and their names will be read aloud during the 36th Annual Candlelight Vigil being held tonight, Monday, May 13, 2024, at 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time. The Candlelight Vigil will be livestreamed on YouTube,  Facebook, and Twitter.

For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6016.  The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.