In Memoriam
The Rhode Island State Police has lost seven members in line-of-duty deaths since its founding in 1925. We will always remember and honor the sacrifices made by these members who died, “In the Service of the State.”
You can learn about their stories both at the Rhode Island State Police Museum and on the Rhode Island State Police website here
RISP Annual Memorial Ceremony
In 1791, the first line-of-duty death of a law enforcement officer occurred in the United States. In 1962 President John F. Kennedy proclaimed May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day and the calendar week in which May 15th falls as National Police Week. Established by a joint resolution of Congress in 1962, National Police Week “pays special recognition to those law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others.”
Every year the Rhode Island State Police holds a Memorial Ceremony during National Police Week to pay tribute to every law enforcement officer killed within the past year and recognize the seven Rhode Island State Troopers who made the ultimate sacrifice while “In the Service of the State.” We also remember and honor the sworn and civilian members who have been part of the Rhode Island State Police family who are no longer with us and the law enforcement community.
