The disturbing data of police officers shot in the line of duty in 2022 paints a concerning picture of the risks these brave individuals take each and every day. In an effort to keep the public safe, these members of law enforcement often put their own lives on the line – with more paying the ultimate price than ever before.
Year 2022 is on its way out, and this year will be remembered as one of the most disturbing yet for law enforcement officers across the country. The Fraternal Order of Police has had enough, as they have worked tirelessly trying to protect and peaceably serve the people in their communities. This sentiment has been echoed by many families and friends of those who work in law enforcement, as they have seen firsthand just how dangerous things can get when out on duty.
Town Hall reports, The Fraternal Order of Police says, “Enough is enough.” As 2022 comes to an end, it is one of the most dangerous years for law enforcement officers across the nation. A rise in the number of officers shot or killed on the job has been “beyond unacceptable.”
According to the FOP, 323 officers have been shot in the line of duty in 2022, seven percent more than in 2020 and 13 percent more than in 2019. Since the beginning of the year, 60 officers have been killed while on duty. This statistic is 28 percent higher than the same period in 2020.
The FOP reports 87 ambush-style attacks on law enforcement officers in which 124 officers were shot and 31 died.
At the state level, Texas and Arizona saw the most officers shot in the line of duty with 27 and 21, respectively. In Georgia, 18 officers were shot on the job, in Kentucky, 16 officers were shot, and in California, 15 officers were shot.
In light of the terrible year, here are some words from Patrick Yoes, President of the Fraternal Order of Police.
This administration has shown no interest in taking care of officers or citizens. As a result, they have targeted the law abiding and made their lives more difficult.
The Washington Examiner reports there has been an increase in serious crimes committed by dangerous individuals using illegal or stolen weapons. Unfortunately, President Biden hasn’t taken action against them.
His attention has once again turned to law-abiding citizens exercising their Second Amendment rights. He wants the ATF to ban privately made firearms, so-called “ghost guns.”
In today’s world, it appears that those who are sworn to protect and serve have taken a backseat to criminals who do not face any justice. Under this current administration, there is an undercurrent of encouragement for criminals of all sorts which explains why we are now seeing record numbers of police officers being attacked each year. Our law enforcement personnel need to be respected and given the tools they need to feel secure in their job. If their safety and wellbeing were seen as a priority over making it easier for criminals to roam the streets, our yearly crime statistics would surely look much different.
Let’s continue this conversation, in the comments below.