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Michael Elerick's avatar

Wow, Keith, well said. Thank you for sharing this sobering and necessary article. Having worked alongside you for decades, I’ve seen firsthand your deep commitment to the men and women you worked with. The reality of law enforcement suicide is a painful truth MOST departments ignore, and your courage in addressing it head-on is powerful. Your voice matters, and I deeply appreciate your heartfelt message to those who sacrifice(d) so much living out this career.

I truly hope your insights resonate within law enforcement leadership across this country. Those in law enforcement should consider forwarding your post to their LE association board and department executive (Police Chief/Sheriff). This is a conversation that needs to be had out loud by those entrusted with the well-being of their rank and file.

Your voice is valuable to all who serve, and I deeply appreciate your dedication and love for both law enforcement and faith-based security (new tribe).

It was an honor working with you (you made a huge impact that carries on today) and I know your dad was very proud of you and Val. Thank you for your wisdom and your heart, Keith. Keep speaking truth - it’s making a difference.

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Steve Blount's avatar

My story is not unusual, I spent 22 years active army, 21 as a LEO. It gets much more difficult after you retire. I’m a firm believer, that people who have experienced and witnessed a lot of metal trauma in their life. They should stay as far away from prescription drugs and alcohol as possible. I’ve had six friends 2 Army and 4 LE kill themselves. Five of them it was a combination of one or the other and sometimes both. Add some sort of loss/trauma in their personal life. There’s a recipe for disaster.

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