U.S. ATTORNEY KEVIN G. RITZ RECOGNIZES NATIONAL POLICE WEEK

Memphis, TN — In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Kevin G. Ritz recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement. The week will be observed Saturday, May 11 through Friday, May 17, 2024. 

“As our country recognizes National Police Week, the Justice Department joins families and communities in remembering the members of the law enforcement community who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting the public,” said Attorney General Merrick Garland.  “Policing is difficult and dangerous, yet time and time again, law enforcement officers answer the call, showing up for their communities when they are needed the most.  Their devotion to duty is matched only by that of their loved ones who make daily sacrifices to support them.  The Justice Department is committed to doing everything in our power to help provide our law enforcement partners with the resources they need to carry out their noble work on behalf of the public.”

United States Attorney Kevin Ritz stated: “In my almost two decades as a federal prosecutor, I have had the honor of working hand-in-hand with the law enforcement officers who keep us safe.  I have also visited with the families of those officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the people of West Tennessee.  The bravery and dedication of these officers inspire me every day.  On behalf of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, I extend our deepest gratitude to the women and men in law enforcement who risk their lives to protect us.”

In 1962, President 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. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.  

Each year, 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.

On Monday, May 13, the names of more than 280 officers killed in the line of duty in 2024 who have been added to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial were read during a Candlelight Vigil. To view a recording of the livestream of this event, visit https://nleomf.org/memorial/programs/national-police-week-2024/candlelight-vigil/.

To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org.