In recognition of law enforcement officers in Mansfield and throughout the country, the United States Congress has designated May 14 through 20 as National Police Week.
Mansfield Police Chief Kenneth A. Coontz is asking that on Peace Officer’s Memorial Day, May 15, that all residents take advantage of the opportunity to honor in their own way the men and women who serve Mansfield as police officers.
This includes remembering the families of Mansfield Police Officers Brian D. Evans who was killed on December 26, 2007; Michael R. Hutchinson who was killed on February 6, 1976; William J. Taylor who was killed on February 26, 1949; John Englehart, Jr. who was killed on August 7, 1893; and Shelby Police Officer Walter A. Means who was killed on April 24, 1954. Each of these men gave their life to protect others in Richland County.
In Mansfield, numerous police officers are assaulted each year while responding to more than 36,860 calls for service in addition to 3,806 traffic stops. Additionally, many police officers have had their careers tragically ended when shot or severely injured while serving their community.
Mansfield Mayor Tim Theaker has issued a proclamation proclaiming May 14-20 as Police Week and May 15 as Peace Officer’s Memorial Day in the City of Mansfield.
In memory of those officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice while serving our community, Mansfield officers will wear “mourning badges” during National Police Week.
The Mansfield Police Honor Guard will honor the fallen officers at a ceremony held on the second floor of the Mansfield Municipal Building at 9:00 AM on Monday, May 15. Everyone is invited to attend this memorial service.
