Thurston County commemorates National Police Week

To honor its law enforcement officers, Thurston County joined other local governments in commemorating National Police Week, May 15- 21.

The Thurston Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) said the proclamation honors the service and sacrifice of law enforcement officers who lost their lives in the line of duty.

"Law enforcement officers are the first line of defense against crime and risk their own lives to save and protect the lives of all people in our communities," the proclamation read.

The BOCC also recognized police officers who continue to "serve and protect our communities and safeguard our democracy."

Thurston County Sheriff John Snaza represented the law enforcement officers in formally accepting the proclamation during the BOCC meeting on May 10..

Snaza said the whole Sheriff's Office is grateful for the acknowledgment of the hard work and sacrifice that they make "not only for the citizens of our community but for the citizens of the State of Washington."

Commissioner Carolina Mejia expressed gratitude for the service and bravery of the law enforcement officers serving in Thurston County, adding that she has a "soft spot" for them.

"I know that you all serve with a great heart in trying to put our community in a safe place," said Mejia.

Commissioner Tye Menser recognized the challenges that police officers face on a daily basis as he acknowledged their "flexibility through the challenges."

"I know that law enforcement is a difficult job even on a good day," said Menser. "And you folks have been navigating the changing social landscape with COVID shifting the legal landscape."

Menser added that providing public safety is the paramount priority of the Thurston County community.

As of December 31, 2021, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund reported that 458 federal, state, local, military and tribal law enforcement officers died in the line of duty for the whole year. Of them, 301 died due to COVID-19, which they contracted while on duty serving their communities.