Despite recent killings, most cops are dedicated community servants, chief justice says

COLUMBIANA

A series of controversial, high-profile fatal police shootings has occurred during the past year, but that should not be a justification for casting all officers in a negative light, the Ohio Supreme Court’s chief justice contends.

That was a main theme that coursed through a presentation by Chief Justice Maureen O’Connor delivered during Thursday’s annual National Peace Officer’s Memorial Service at Das Dutch Village Inn, 150 E. State Route 14.

Sponsoring the somber, two-hour gathering to honor current and fallen officers locally and nationally was the Salem-based Fraternal Order of Police Quaker Lodge 88.

“I have grieved with them and with their families,” she told an audience of about 250 area police officers and others, referring to law-enforcement personnel who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. “The pain may ease, but it never fades.”

The tiny minority of officers who abuse their power and oath to serve should be held accountable, the chief justice noted.

Nevertheless, the public should not lose sight of the fact the vast majority uphold a strong work ethic and are dedicated to protecting their communities while sometimes placing their lives on the line, she said.

Read more of her remarks in Friday's Vindicator or on Vindy.com.