Date: July 23, 2002	Contact: Darren Pudgil
	(619) 531-5894 / (619) 999-4199 pgr

A FITTING TRIBUTE
Roberts and Cox Seek to Honor Fallen Crime Fighters and Fire Fighters

Fallen law enforcement and public safety officers in San Diego County could have a permanent
tribute to their service as part of the planned scenic County Administration Center Waterfront Park
under a recommendation by Chairman Ron Roberts and Vice Chairman Greg Cox approved by the
Board of Supervisors this morning.

The proposal expressed the County’s support for the federal Law Enforcement Tribute Act, H.R. 2624 (Schiff)
and S. 2179 (Carnahan), that would provide funding for local governments to create memorials to honor law enforcement and public safety officers killed in the line of duty.

The Supervisors also voted to explore including a permanent tribute to local law enforcement and public safety officers as part of the Master Plan for the County Administration Center Waterfront Park, a planned 9-acre public park surrounding the County building with vast lawns, gardens, and spectacular views of San Diego Bay.

“Now more than ever, San Diegans have truly come to recognize the enormous sacrifices that our public safety officers make, especially those who have made the ultimate sacrifice,” said Chairman Ron Roberts. “Those who have died while protecting and serving our community are certainly deserving of this special lasting tribute.”

“Police officers, Sheriff’s deputies and firefighters all have an enormous impact on the lives and safety of the public, and all face daily risks in the line of duty,” said Vice Chairman Greg Cox. “It is only fitting that we honor the sacrifice of these brave men and women who have given their lives to serve the citizens of San Diego County.”

“Now more than ever, San Diegans have truly come to recognize the enormous sacrifices that our public safety officers make, especially those who have made the ultimate sacrifice,” said Chairman Ron Roberts. “Those who have died while protecting and serving our community are certainly deserving of this special lasting tribute.”

Nationwide, 51 law enforcement officers were killed in the line of duty in 2000, according to the most recent figures released by the FBI. 112 firefighters died while on duty in 1999.