Officers around the nation were recognized Tuesday during National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. The annual observance honors the service and sacrifice of law enforcement officers across the United States.
According to the National Fraternal Order of Police, 378 officers — including eight in Alabama — were shot last year nationwide, resulting in 46 officer deaths, one in Alabama.
Huntsville Police Officer Garrett Crumby was slain while responding to a shots-fired call in March. His partner, Officer Albert Morin, was also shot, and underwent a month-long stay in critical condition.
Morin, back on duty in Huntsville, received an outpouring of support from the department and community for his bravery.
RELATED: 150-mile-long tribute: Final respects paid to fallen HPD officer
The number of officers shot in 2023 marks a 14% increase from 2022, national police data shows.
Local, state and national law enforcement agencies are marking the occasion with events and thoughtful deeds to honor those who put their lives in harms way to protect and serve.
Attorney General Steve Marshall, Alabama’s top law enforcement official, showed gratitude toward those who choose defend the public from “anarchy.”
Today, and every day, we are grateful for the dedication and sacrifice of our law enforcement who are the thin blue line separating the public from anarchy. pic.twitter.com/fqmySZtbtC
— Attorney General Steve Marshall (@AGSteveMarshall) January 9, 2024
Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News.
