The week in May that includes the 15th is designated as National Police Week which not only recognizes law enforcement officers but also pays respect to those who have lost their lives in the line of duty. During this week, the public is urged to display a blue ribbon on their vehicle antenna in support of the men and women who have paid the ultimate price by giving their lives on behalf of their communities and to honor those officers who serve and protect us each day.
It was 1962 when President John F. Kennedy signed Public Law 87-726 which declared May 15th as the official National Peace Officers Memorial Day and ever since that day, national events have been held in Washington, D.C. during that week and throughout the United States.
There will be 286 names of fallen officers added to the Memorial this year which brings the total to 20,267 officers who have fallen in the line of duty.
This year, during the week of May 11-17th we are asking everyone to pick up a blue ribbon to show support to those who have lost their lives serving the public and show appreciation for those dedicated men and women who are currently keeping us safe.
Ribbons are available free of charge at any law enforcement office in Brown county.
Law Enforcement Code of Ethics
As a law enforcement officer, my fundamental duty is to serve the community; to safeguard lives and property; to protect the innocent against deception, the weak against oppression or intimidation and the peaceful against violence or disorder; and to respect the constitutional rights of all to liberty, equality and justice.
I will keep my private life unsullied as an example to all and will behave in a manner that does not bring discredit to me or to my agency. I will maintain courageous calm in the face of danger, scorn or ridicule; develop self-restraint; and be constantly mindful of the welfare of others.
Honest in thought and deed both in my personal and official life, I will be exemplary in obeying the law and the regulations of my department.
Whatever I see or hear of a confidential nature or that is confided to me in my official capacity will be kept ever secret unless revelation is necessary in the performance of my duty.
I will never act officiously or permit personal feelings, prejudices, political beliefs, aspirations, animosities or friendships to influence my decisions.
With no compromise for crime and with relentless prosecution of criminals, I will enforce the law courteously and appropriately without fear or favor, malice or ill will, never employing unnecessary force or violence and never accepting gratuities.
I recognize the badge of my office as a symbol of public faith, and I accept it as a public trust to be held so long as I am true to the ethics of police service.
I will never engage in acts of corruption or bribery, nor will I condone such acts by other police officers. I will cooperate with all legally authorized agencies and their representatives in the pursuit of justice.
I know that I alone am responsible for my own standard of professional performance and will take every reasonable opportunity to enhance and improve my level of knowledge and competence.
I will constantly strive to achieve these objectives and ideals, dedicating myself before God to my chosen profession, law enforcement.
