Friday’s Heroes: Remembering The Fallen

 

You gave your all to protect and serve us, and for that we are eternally grateful.

Director Tom Clements, 58

Colorado Department of Corrections

March 19, 2013 – Tom Clements, executive director of the Colorado Department of Corrections, was assassinated at his home by a former inmate. Director Clements is survived by his wife and two daughters.

Sergeant Gilbert Cortez, 46

California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation

March 25, 2013 – Sgt. Gilbert Cortez was killed in an automobile crash when his vehicle left the roadway and overturned. His loyal K-9, Mattie, was also killed in the crash. He is survived by his wife, two children, and parents.

Lieutenant Osvaldo Albarati, 39

Federal Bureau of Prisons

February 26, 2013 – Lieutenant Osvaldo Albarati was shot and killed by several gunmen, an act that was believed to be retaliation for Lt. Albarati’s investigation of a cell phone smuggling operation. Several inmates and another officer are all believed to have played a part in the murder. Lt. Albarati is survived by his wife, two daughters, and a son.

Director Larry Johnson

Arkansas Fifth Judicial District Drug Task Force

March 26, 2013 – Director Larry Johnson suffered a fatal heart attack while in foot pursuit of a suspect.

Trooper James, Sauter, 28

Illinois State Police

March 28, 2013 – Trooper James Sauter was stopped in the left roadway shoulder when a tractor trailer rear-ended his parked patrol car. Both vehicles quickly became engulfed in flames, and Trooper Sauter died at the scene. He is survived by his wife and family.

*Line of duty deaths are on the rise in 2013. In fact, auto-related deaths are 50% higher than at this time last year. There is an 18% increase in the number of officers killed by gunfire.