May 11, 2009

Washington, D.C.-- This week, National Police Week, we pay tribute to  the brave men and women who make up our police force. Peace officers from across the nation will travel to Washington to honor those who have given their lives in the line of duty. Nevada lost two officers in the past year, including one Las Vegas Metropolitan Police officer last week.

On May 13th, Nevada State Trooper Kara M. Kelly-Borgognone of the Nevada Highway Patrol will be honored at the National Police Week candlelight vigil in Washington for officers killed in the line of duty.

She was killed in February 2008, while investigating a bomb threat at a gas station in Spanish Springs. Her patrol car was involved in an accident with another car and she died of her injuries four days later.  Officer Kelly-Borgognone was a wife and mother of two. She was only 33.

Last week, Las Vegas Police Officer James Manor was hit while he was responding to a call. He was 28 years old, just beginning his life as a police officer and as a father, when a suspected drunk driver stole him from his child, his family and friends, and his fellow officers. He was a native of Las Vegas and was proud to serve the community he grew up in.

 “Nevadans will never forget the public service and tragic sacrifice that these officers made while protecting our safety,” Nevada Senator Harry Reid said. “As someone who served as a police officer, I know the camaraderie that is built within a unit and how devastating  it is to lose a fellow officer. During National Police Week we pause and reflect on the valor of these officers and so many other peace officers who gave their lives, as well as those who continue working each day to keep our streets safe. We are indebted to them for their sacrifice and service.”