[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 81 (Thursday, May 12, 2022)]
[Senate]
[Pages S2488-S2489]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          NATIONAL POLICE WEEK

  Mrs. HYDE-SMITH. Mr. President, every single day, law enforcement 
officers across the Nation put on a badge and leave for work to protect 
and serve our families and communities, not knowing if they will return 
to their own. Whether it be by ensuring safety on our roadways or 
responding to life-or-death crises, these brave men and women 
consistently honor their solemn oath in safeguarding the people of this 
blessed Nation.
  As we commemorate 2022 National Law Enforcement Week, we offer 
special honors for the 619 officers our Nation lost last year in the 
line of duty, sadly including officers from Mississippi. This week is 
dedicated to remembering their ultimate sacrifice, which is dearly felt 
by loved ones, friends, and entire communities.
  Law enforcement officers have remained steadfast in their commitment 
to serve, even when faced with harsh, unfair criticism, scrutiny, and 
limited resources. Their ability to carry out their already stressful 
duties in such a challenging and sometimes hostile environment is 
remarkable.
  I want to make it known to all the law enforcement officers across 
the State of Mississippi and around the country that I greatly admire 
you for your rock solid tenacity and loyalty throughout such 
challenges. I will continue to work to ensure you have what you need to 
do your job.
  These officers, who are truly hometown heroes, are strongholds in our 
communities, and the loss of any officer is deeply felt by all. This 
Police Week, we honor and mourn five heroes from Mississippi, officers 
who died in the line of duty in 2021.
  Mississippi Highway Safety Patrol Trooper John Martin Harris, 44, 
died on May 28, 2021, after a vehicle struck him during a traffic stop. 
Harris' childhood dream was to be a policeman and serve his community. 
Having earned two Purple Hearts throughout his 24-year law enforcement 
career is a testament to his dedication, bravery, and selflessness. He 
leaves behind his wife and his two children.
  Jefferson Davis County Deputy Sheriff Thomas Patrick ``Pat'' Barnes, 
50, lost his life on April 10, 2021, after he sustained injuries in a 
single vehicle car crash while responding to a call for assistance from 
another agency. Barnes' passion for law enforcement began while working 
in security. He joined and graduated from the police academy in 2017 
and began his career with Jefferson Davis County Sheriff's department 
shortly thereafter. He leaves behind his wife, four children, and his 
grandchildren.
  Hancock County Lieutenant Michael Anthony Boutte, Sr., was tragically 
shot and killed after responding to an emergency situation involving a 
suicidal man who turned his weapon onto arriving deputies. He died on 
February 1, 2021, at the age of 57. Before his law enforcement career, 
Boutte served in the U.S. Air Force, where he was deployed during 
Operation Desert Storm. Boutte is survived by his wife, his child, his 
step-children, and his grandchildren.
  Deputy Sheriff Bobby Daffin of George County Sheriff's Office passed 
away August 12, 2021, following a battle with COVID-19. He was 37 years 
old. Daffin served his community for 14 years and had recently served 
as a narcotics agent for the Southeast Mississippi Narcotics Task 
Force. He leaves behind a young daughter.
  Hinds County Sheriff Lee D. Vance, 63, lost his life from 
cardiorespiratory failure as a result of COVID-19 on August 3, 2021. 
Vance, who has always had a love for the city of Jackson, served as 
Jackson police chief from 2014-2017 and was later elected Hinds County 
Sheriff in 2019. He leaves behind four daughters, a son, and numerous 
grandchildren.
  We also honor the lives of many officers, whose stories of sacrifice 
had been lost to history until now.
  In addition to these recent losses, the National Law Enforcement 
Officers Memorial will include the name of Deputy Town Marshal Walker 
Cobb of Saucier, MS. At the age of 41, Cobb was fatally shot on 
December 25, 1903, while attempting to arrest an impaired suspect for 
disorderly conduct. More than a century later, his loss and sacrifice 
will be remembered.
  Throughout our Nation's history, our men and women in blue have often 
risked personal peril to safeguard their fellow citizens, and we owe 
them our staunch support. As we mark National Police Week, let us 
acknowledge our debt to these fallen officers and recommit ourselves to 
support them and their families, especially when tragedy strikes.
  I will continue to be an advocate for law enforcement professionals 
and do all I can to honor the legacy of those lost in the line of duty.
  To the families and loved ones of our fallen Mississippi law 
enforcement officers, I know you have faced enormous loss. It is said, 
``The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in 
spirit.'' Please know that it is my prayer that the Lord stays near you 
during your time of grief. God bless you, and God bless our men and 
women in blue.

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