Donation Summaries

Donation Summary: Sgt. Thomas Duran

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 17:50:28 GMT

The Fallen Officer:

Sergeant Thomas Duran succumbed to injuries sustained in a hit-and-run crash while conducting a traffic stop on Watts Street near Wilson Street in El Reno, OK.

The Circumstance:

Shortly before 2:00 a.m., Sergeant Duran was flagged down by a pedestrian. As he spoke with the man on the roadside, a passing vehicle struck him and fled the scene. The pedestrian moved Sergeant Duran to safety and called for assistance.

Sergeant Duran was airlifted to the University of Oklahoma Health Center, where he later succumbed to his injuries. His organs were donated following his passing, continuing his legacy of service.

The driver was arrested the following day and charged with failure to stop at an accident resulting in great bodily injury and assault and battery with a deadly weapon.

Sergeant Duran served with the El Reno Police Department for 14 years. He had previously served with the Enid Police Department and worked as a detention officer with the Edmond Police Department. He is survived by his wife and four children.

Mission Accomplished:

Upon hearing and reading about the line of duty death of Sgt. Duran, Give Blue Hope reached out to the El Reno Police Department.

Give Blue Hope was privileged in providing the family with a charitable gift of money.

Rest in peace, Sgt. Duran.

Donation Summary: Sgt. Lee Sorensen

Sat, 30 Aug 2025 13:49:46 GMT

The Fallen Officer:

Police Officer Eric Estrada and Sergeant Lee Sorensen of the Tremonton-Garland Police Department in Utah were shot and killed while responding to multiple 911 hang-up calls at a residence near 700 North and 200 East in Tremonton after 9:00 p.m.

The Circumstance:

One of the officers was talking to a resident in the home about a domestic dispute, a man exited the house with a gun, opened fire, and mortally wounded the officer. Another officer arrived as back-up and was also shot and killed. A deputy and a K9 from the Box Elder County Sheriff’s Office were hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries after being shot while in their patrol vehicle.

As additional officers arrived, bystanders convinced the man to surrender. He was arrested and charged with aggravated murder.

Sorensen, a 56-year-old Garland native, was a 16-year veteran of the Tremonton-Garland Police Department when he was killed.

Sorensen married his high school sweetheart, Lanette Peterson, in 1994. Sorensen had worked as the medical examiner investigator in Box Elder County.

Tremonton-Garland Police Chief Dustin Cordova offered encouragement to his fellow officers.

“As an officer, you will consistently deal with people on their worst day. This job can make you feel like the world is bad, that people do not care, and it is ‘us versus them,’” he said. “That is not true. This week we witnessed thousands of people come together to show us love.”

Mission Accomplished:

Upon hearing and reading about the line of duty death of Sgt. Sorensen, Give Blue Hope reached out to the Tremonton-Garland Police Department.

Give Blue Hope was privileged in providing the family with a charitable gift of money.

Rest in peace, Sgt. Sorensen.

Donation Summary: Officer Eric Estrada

Sat, 30 Aug 2025 13:40:48 GMT

The Fallen Officer:

The Circumstance:

Tremonton-Garland Police Chief Dustin Cordova called Estrada a model officer who helped bust stereotypes and build the community’s trust in police.

“He spent time with our most vulnerable citizens, educating and supporting them,” Cordova said. “He showed them that officers are more than just a scary thing, they are our neighbors and protectors.”

Officer Estrada had served with the Tremonton-Garland Police Department for less than a year and previously served with the North Park Police Department, Box Elder County Sheriff's Office, and Logan City Police Department. He is survived by his wife and two children.

Mission Accomplished:

Upon hearing and reading about the line of duty death of Officer Estrade, Give Blue Hope reached out to the Tremonton-Garland Police Department.

Give Blue Hope was privileged in providing the family with a charitable gift of money.

Rest in peace, Officer Estrada.

Donation Summary: Trooper First Class Dennis Ricks

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 12:20:05 GMT

The Fallen Officer:

Trooper First Class Dennis Ricks succumbed to injuries he received when he was struck by a truck during a traffic stop on August 10, 2025.

The Circumstance:

Around 2:00 a.m., Trooper Ricks had stopped a vehicle on Interstate 26 eastbound near mile marker 166 in Orangeburg. When he walked back to his patrol vehicle, the driver of a box truck struck him. He was transported to Trident Medical Center in North Charleston, suffering from severe brain injury, internal injuries, and broken bones in his back. The driver was charged with operating a vehicle under suspension.

“We are deeply grateful for the overwhelming outpouring of love, prayers, and condolences during this time of grief,” the family said in a statement. ”Your words, gestures, and support have been a source of comfort."

“As we honor Dennis, I just ask everyone to please slow down and move over for emergency vehicles,” she said. “My husband would still be here, if everyone could do that. Please give these men and women the space to work safely. That’s one way that we can remember him.”

Trooper Ricks had served with the South Carolina Highway Patrol for almost two years. He is survived by his wife. He passed away on August 13, 2025.

Mission Accomplished:

Upon hearing and reading about the tragic line of duty death of Trooper Ricks, Give Blue Hope reached out to the South Carolina Highway Patrol.

Give Blue Hope was privileged in providing the family with a charitable gift of money.

Rest in peace, Trooper Ricks, your service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Sponsorship Packages - 2025 Event ft. Jim Pillen & John W. Ewing Jr.

info@givebluehope.org — Wed, 23 Jul 2025 23:13:58 GMT

��Sponsorship Packages

�� For more information or to sponsor:

Tiffany Yant & Lindsey Hale

Event Coordinators

�� tiffany@givebluehope.org | lindsey@givebluehope.org

❖ Platinum Tier – $2,500

➢ Premium logo placement on Sponsorship Board

➢ 6 VIP event tickets to Give Blue Hope 2nd Annual Event

➢ Recognition on the Give Blue Hope website

➢ Social media recognition before and after the event

➢ Exclusive Meet & Greet and photo opportunity with Governor Pillen

❖ Gold Tier – $1,500

➢ Logo featured on select event materials

➢ Recognition on the Give Blue Hope website

➢ 4 complimentary event tickets to Give Blue Hope 2nd Annual Event

➢ Verbal acknowledgement during the event

➢ Social media recognition before and after the event

❖ Bronze Tier – $500

➢ Social media shout-out before the event

➢ Recognition on the Give Blue Hope website

➢ 2 complimentary event tickets to Give Blue Hope 2nd Annual Event

➢ Personalized thank-you card from Give Blue Hope

Event Highlights

➢ Special Guests Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen and Omaha Mayor John W. Ewing Jr.

➢ Wine & Cheese Pairing, Heavy Hors d'oeuvres, Cocktails

➢ Silent Auction

➢ Survivor stories and honoring fallen heroes

Proceeds generated from this event will help bridge the financial gap for the immediate family of a Law Enforcement Officer, Corrections Officer, or First Responder who has been killed in the line of duty protecting and serving the communities they loved.

��: $150 per person

Donation Summary: Undersheriff Brandon Gaede

info@givebluehope.org — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 20:30:44 GMT

The Fallen Officer:

Undersheriff Brandon Gaede, 30 years old, was shot and killed on June 27, 2025 while arresting a subject.

The Circumstance:

After receiving a call about loud booms and explosions around 6:00 p.m., responding officers were unable to find the source but cleared the area. At 8:30 p.m., Undersheriff Gaede responded to the scene after three more calls were made. When he encountered a subject outside his house, the man denied setting off fireworks.

Another call came in regarding explosives at 9:18, and Undersheriff Gaede was immediately on the scene and found the same subject in his yard and smoke nearby. The man admitted to setting off explosives, not commercial-grade fireworks, a felony in Kansas. While placing the subject in handcuffs, the man pulled out a concealed handgun and shot Undersheriff Gaede five times. He returned fire, killing the subject.

At the funeral, family members remembered Gaede not only as a dedicated officer but as a husband, father, and friend.

“Brandon is my son. He wasn’t just my son-in-law,” said his mother-in-law. “I watched him every day take care of my daughter and then these three kids when they came along.”

“For five years, I got to work with Brandon,” said Gaede’s father-in-law. “During that time, I not only found out what an amazing man he was, but I got to see what kind of law enforcement officer this kid was.”

Deputy Gaede is survived his his wife and three kids.

Mission Accomplished:

Upon hearing and reading about the tragic line of duty death of Undersheriff Gaede, Give Blue Hope reached out to the Sedgwick County Sheriff's Department.

Give Blue Hope was privileged in providing the family with a charitable gift of money.Rest in peace, Undersheriff Gaede, your service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Tiffany Yant Joins GBH as Administrative Assistant/Family Outreach Coordinator

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 15:35:27 GMT

Give Blue Hope is excited to announce Tiffany Yant has joined the organization as an Administrative Assistant and Family Outreach Coordinator.

Tiffany initially became aware of GBH through the tragic passing of her father, Officer Ross Bartlett of the Ceresco Police Department in Nebraska, who was also a NDCS investigator and a member of the Ceresco Volunteer Fire Department.

Here is Tiffany's story in her own words:

"My name is Tiffany Yant, and I am the proud daughter of Fallen Police Officer Ross Bartlett.

On April 12th, 2024, my dad put on his badge, his gun, and his vest. He kissed my mom goodbye and told her he loved her. Then he walked out the door—and he never came back. Just a few miles from our home, my father was tragically killed

in the line of duty. That day, our world shattered. Life was divided into before and after. One senseless act stole a man of honor, a husband, a father, a protector. Since that unimaginable day, I’ve wrestled with questions no one should have to

ask. How does over three decades of public service and selfless duty end in such tragedy? How do I raise my children in a world that can be so cruel?

I am a COPS kid—I grew up bleeding blue. As a child, I resented it. Everyone knew my dad. No place was anonymous. But now, I wear that legacy like armor. With pride. With love.

As an adult, you know your parents won’t live forever. But nothing prepares you for what it means to lose a parent in the line of duty. No one prepares you for the trauma families endure—not just grief, but the heavy obligations thrust upon us

in the name of honor, duty, and sacrifice.

In my grief, I searched for meaning—for a way to carry forward his legacy. That’s when Give Blue Hope found us. Just weeks after my father’s death, they extended our family a $15,000 donation—no red tape, no death certificate, no questions asked. It took 16 weeks to receive the death certificate. 18 weeks for his final paycheck. 32 weeks for life insurance. 45 weeks for workers’ comp. 60 weeks for state benefits. And the federal Public Safety Officer's Benefits? Still waiting. Maybe three years, maybe more.

But Give Blue Hope was there. In two weeks. When we had nothing but heartbreak, they showed up with compassion and resources. My mom went from two incomes to one in a matter of minutes. That gift helped keep us afloat. It meant more than words could ever explain.

Of all the organizations that reached out—and there were many—Give Blue Hope was the only one that acted immediately and asked for nothing in return. That moment ignited a fire in me. Since that day, I’ve felt a calling—a need to walk

beside other families who’ve faced the same nightmare. This is how I carry on my dad’s legacy. This is how I honor his sacrifice. I can be a light in someone else’s darkness. I can say with truth and tenderness, “I know what you’re going

through.”

In April 2025, I accepted a part-time position with Give Blue Hope as an Administrative Assistant and Family Outreach Coordinator.

For the first time since my dad died, I feel whole again. I have purpose. I have direction. And through Give Blue Hope, I’m turning my grief into something that matters—something that helps others survive the unimaginable."

Donation Summary: Trooper Kyle McAcy

info@givebluehope.org — Sat, 24 May 2025 16:03:43 GMT

The Fallen Officer:

Trooper Kyle McAcy, 31, was responding with other troopers to a crash on Interstate 80 near mile marker 424, between Ashland and Greenwood. During that response, Trooper McAcy was outside his patrol unit and was struck by a snowplow.

The Circumstance:

"Our NSP family is devastated today,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “Kyle was a dedicated trooper, a devoted public servant, and most importantly a good friend to many in Omaha and beyond. His loss is being felt by countless people. Please keep his family, friends, colleagues, and community in your hearts as they deal with this unimaginable loss.”

"He was always so excited to talk about what he was doing as a trooper, you know, like, you can just tell when people love what they do," said McAcy's former homeroom teacher at Millard West, Tim Royers.

Trooper McAcy, 31, was a ten-year veteran of the Nebraska State Patrol. He was a graduate of Camp 56 and wore badge #302. Trooper McAcy has served in the Patrol Division, Carrier Enforcement, and as a Crisis Negotiator. He was stationed in Omaha.

Mission Accomplished:

"Yesterday, I was able to attend the funeral of Nebraska Trooper McAcy, badge #302.

Afterward, I was blessed to present a card and charitable gift of money to the Trooper McAcy's fiancée. Because of the generous donations from people across the country, this was possible.

If you don't think that a small generous donation doesn't matter, the thank you and hug from Trooper McAcy's fiancée was validation that it does."

Donation Summary: Deputy Hector Cuevas Jr.

info@givebluehope.org — Sat, 24 May 2025 15:52:54 GMT

The Fallen Officer:

Deputy Sheriff Hector Cuevas, 36, was killed on March 17th, 2025 when his patrol car struck a pole at the intersection of El Evado and Seneca roads just before 11 a.m.

The Circumstance:

Deputy Cuevas was in pursuit of a stolen vehicle that had been reported to the department just minutes earlier. During the high-speed chase, Deputy Sheriff Cuevas' vehicle collided with another car and then a nearby power pole. The impact of the crash split the patrol vehicle in half, critically injuring Deputy Sheriff Cuevas. Although first responders rushed to administer aid, he passed away at the scene. The driver of the other vehicle was taken to a nearby hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

“He was a cop’s cop,” Sheriff Shannon Dicus shared. “The kind of law enforcement officer we all strive to be — a man who could engage with a hardened gang member one moment and reassure a frightened child the next.”

Hector’s dedication extended beyond the badge. He was an active member of his church and a beloved football coach in Rialto, having mentored young athletes at Carter High School. He also played for the San Bernardino Spartans, a team of local law enforcement and firefighters.

Deputy Sheriff Cuevas had served with the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department for six years. He is survived by his wife, two children, his parents, and his brother and sister.

Mission Accomplished:

"I had the privilege to represent Give Blue Hope by showing support and attending the services for San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department Deputy Hector Cuevas Jr. Deputy Cuevas was killed during a vehicle pursuit in Victorville, California.

What a beautiful tribute to a true warrior.

Deputy Cuevas' mother spoke and gave a beautiful message and the blunt truth about the potential loss when we walk out the door and not knowing if you will come home.

With the wonderful donations, Give Blue Hope was able to provide a small charitable gift to the family. ��"

Donation Summary: Officer Jeremy LaBonte

info@givebluehope.org — Sat, 24 May 2025 15:34:16 GMT

The Fallen Officer:

Officer Jeremy LaBonte, 24, was shot and killed while responding to a suspicious person reported at a shopping center at 1425 Market Blvd in Roswell around 7:15 p.m.

The Circumstance:

Officer LaBonte found the suspect, identified as 23-year-old Edward Espinoza, in the parking lot near the ACE Pickleball Club. According to police, Espinoza shot Labonte multiple times.

He encountered Officer Labonte responding to the scene and spoke to the officer for a few seconds, then drew a handgun and shot him twice.

"At that point the defendant walks carefully around, leaning over and fires more than a dozen shots into the fallen officer," the prosecution said. "He leaves the gun there and then he runs away with his arms held high."

They also alleged that when Espinoza was arrested on Feb. 7, he gave a lucid interview with police and acknowledged shooting Officer Labonte. They further said he had used a so-called " ghost gun," one without a serial number, in the shooting.

"If he can find and purchase that kind of thing on the internet, he doesn't need to be released, he's got the mental capacity to handle the Fulton County Jail," the prosecution said.

“We join them, his fellow Roswell PD, and all law enforcement in mourning this sudden and heartbreaking loss, and we ask all Georgians to join us in keeping them in your thoughts and prayers,” Gov. Brian Kemp said in a statement. “We also ask that we remain mindful of the heavy sacrifices law enforcement and their families make to keep all of us safe each and every day. May this courageous man’s memory inspire all of us in the days, weeks, and years ahead.”

Officer Labonte had served with the Roswell Police Department for over three years. He is survived by his wife, son, parents, two sisters, nephew, and grandparents. Labonte’s wife told Atlanta News First that he was killed four days before going on vacation. She also said the pair met in middle school.

Mission Accomplished:

Upon hearing about the tragic line of duty death of Officer LaBonte, Give Blue Hope reached out to the Roswell Police Department.

Give Blue hope was privileged in providing the family a charitable gift of money.

Rest in peace, Officer LaBonte, your service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Donation Summary: Sergeant Elio Diaz

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 20:51:01 GMT

The Fallen Officer:

Sergeant Elio Diaz, 40, was shot and killed during a traffic stop shortly after 3:00 p.m. at 4968 Tamiami Trail in Charlotte Harbor.

The Circumstance:

Diaz stopped a white pickup truck at a Chevron gas station in Port Charlotte after discovering its license plate was flagged for financial responsibility suspension, indicating a lapse in insurance.

During the stop, the driver pulled out a rifle and fired at Sergeant Diaz before fleeing. When he was found a few miles away, the suspect reached for his rifle and was shot and killed by deputies.

Sergeant Diaz had served with the Charlotte County Sheriff's Office for over 11 years. He is survived by his wife and four children.

Mission Accomplished:

Upon hearing about the tragic line of duty death of Sgt Elio Diaz, Give Blue Hope reached out to the Charlotte County Sheriff's Department. Give Blue Hope spoke with Lt Williams, Charlotte County Sheriff Department family laison.

After speaking with Lt Williams and reviewing the incident information, Give Blue hope was privileged in providing the family a charitable gift of money. Sgt Diaz left behind a wife and 4 children.

Rest in peace, Sgt Diaz, your service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Donation Summary: Officer Phylicia Carson

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 20:39:17 GMT

The Fallen Officer:

Osage Beach Police Officer Phylicia Faye Carson, 33, of Lake Ozark, Missouri died in the line of duty on August 31, 2024. Officer Carson was killed in a vehicle crash at about 1:30 am while responding to assist another officer who was pursuing a vehicle.

The Circumstance:

Her patrol car left the roadway and struck a tree on Highway A near Toronto Springs Park Road. A Camden County Sheriff's Office deputy discovered her patrol car on fire in the tree line.

The driver of the vehicle that was being pursued crashed a short distance away and was taken into custody. He was charged with aggravated fleeing a stop, resulting in death.

Officer Carson had served with the Osage Beach Police Department for one year. She is survived by her husband and six children.

Mission Accomplished:

Upon hearing about the tragic line of duty death of Officer Phylicia Carson, Give Blue Hope reached out to the Osage Beach Police Department.

After reviewing the incident information, Give Blue hope felt privileged to have written a check to the family of Officer Carson. Officer Carson left behind a husband and 6 children.

Rest in peace Officer Carson, your sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Donation Summary: Investigator Taylor Bristow

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 20:18:54 GMT

The Fallen Officer:

30-year-old Investigator Taylor Bristow was shot in the face while serving a warrant related to a child sexual exploitation investigation and ultimately succumbed to the gunshot wound three days later.

The Circumstance:

On Tuesday morning, deputies went to a home on Don Rich Drive in Carrollton to execute a search warrant for child exploitation material. The suspect, 40-year-old Christopher Bly, went back into the house after answering the door, according to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI).

“Bly produced a handgun and fired, striking himself and (Bristow),” the GBI said.

Bristow was airlifted to Grady Memorial Hospital and underwent surgery, after which he was in critical condition. Multiple devices with child sexual abuse material were later seized at the home, according to the GBI.

Bristow was an investigator who had been with the department for six years. West Georgia First Responders is hosting the only legitimate site to donate to Bristow’s family, the sheriff’s office said.

Mission Accomplished:

After hearing about the line of duty death of Investigator Bristow, Give Blue Hope reached out to the Carroll County Sheriff's Department spokesperson.

After reviewing the information received, Give Blue Hope was fortunate to provide the family of Investigator Bristow with a charitable gift of money to help ease the immediate financial burden. Investigator Bristow leaves behind a wife and 2 children.

Rest in peace, Investigator Bristow, your service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Donation Summary: Deputy Sheriff Hunter Reedy

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 18:47:23 GMT

The Fallen Officer:

On August 9th, 2024, 27-year-old Officer Hunter Reedy from the Smyth County Sheriff's Office in Virginia, was shot and killed during a traffic stop.

The Circumstance:

Marion Police initiated a traffic stop on Route 16, but the driver did not stop until he was near the intersection of Route 16 and Hatchery Drive, according to Virginia State Police.

During the stop, the driver fired at officers and deputies, hitting both deputies, according to Virginia State Police. Police say law enforcement returned fire, striking the driver.

The Smyth County Sheriff’s Office says the driver, who is believed to be from North Carolina, is recovering from minor injuries with charges pending. The expected charges include one count of aggravated murder and four counts of attempted aggravated murder, according to the sheriff’s office.

Hunter was a seven-year veteran officer. He began his career at the Chilhowie Police Department in 2017, then came to the Smyth County Sheriff’s Office in 2021.

Mission Accomplished:

After hearing about the tragic event of the line of duty death of Deputy Hunter Reedy, Give Blue Hope reached out to the Smyth County Sheriff's Department spokesperson.

After reviewing the incident information, Give Blue Hope was fortunate to send the family of Deputy Reedy a charitable gift of money to help with immediate expenses. Your donations to Give Blue Hope help make this a reality. Deputy Reedy leaves behind a wife and 3 children.

Rest in peace, Deputy Reedy, your service and sacrifice will not be forgotten.

Donation Summary: Officer Ross Bartlett

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 17:18:37 GMT

The Fallen Officer:

On April 12, 2024, Officer Ross Bartlett was killed when his patrol car was struck by another vehicle as he conducted a traffic stop on southbound Highway 77 near Little Salt Road at about 7:35 pm.

The Circumstance:

He was sitting in his patrol car during the stop when a pickup truck struck his vehicle in the rear, pushing it into the car he had stopped. Bystanders attempted life-saving measures on Officer Bartlett before he was flown to Bryan Health West Campus, where he succumbed to his injuries. The driver of the car he had stopped suffered non-life-threatening injuries as a result of the collision.

The driver was charged with felony motor vehicle homicide for driving distracted.

Officer Bartlett had served with the Ceresco Police Department for seven years and also concurrently served as an investigator with the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services for seven years.

He had served a total of 30 years in law enforcement, previously serving with the Valentine Police Department, Boone County Sheriff's Office, Madison Police Department, Madison County Sheriff's Office, and Newman Grove Police Department. He also served as a volunteer firefighter with the Ceresco Fire Department.

Mission Accomplished:

After hearing about the tragic line of duty death of Officer Ross Bartlett, Give Blue Hope reached out to the Chief of Police of the Ceresco Police Department, Nebraska.

Arrangements were made to meet with the family of Officer Ross Bartlett. During that meeting, Give Blue Hope had the humbling honor in presenting Mrs. Ross Bartlett and family with a check to help with their immediate expenses. Officer Bartlett leaves behind a wife, 2 children and 7 grandchildren.

Rest in peace, Officer Bartlett, your service and sacrifice will not be forgotten.

Donation Summary: Officer Paul Tracey

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 16:52:20 GMT

The Fallen Officer:

Police Officer Paul Tracey was struck and killed by a vehicle while he was working a construction detail near 158 Totten Pond Road in Waltham.

The Circumstance:

At approximately 4:00 p.m. on December 6, 2023, Peter Simon was operating a pickup truck eastbound on Totten Pond Road in Waltham when he pulled to the side of the road and suddenly turned back into the roadway striking a vehicle traveling eastbound.

He then continued driving forward for approximately a quarter mile before fatally striking Waltham Police Officer Paul Tracey and Roderick Jackson. After striking the victims the defendant continued on, striking multiple other vehicles before abandoning his truck and fleeing on foot.

The defendant subsequently encountered another Waltham officer who had responded to the scene, and allegedly pulled a knife on the officer before stealing his police cruiser and again fleeing. The suspect crashed the cruiser on Winter Street before he was arrested by a Waltham Police Officer.

From Officer Treacy's obituary:

"On February 25, 1996 Paul was appointed to the City of Waltham Police Department as a Patrolman. His love for people and helping others allowed him to thrive as a Police Officer. He would use his people skills to navigate the difficulty of the job. Helping the youth of the community and in so many special ways cared for the elderly. He treated everyone that he encountered with the respect and dignity they deserved."

Mission Accomplished:

After hearing about the tragic events and the line of duty of Officer Paul Tracey, Give Blue Hope reached out to the Waltham Police Department spokesperson.

After receiving information about the incident, Give Blue Hope was fortunate to send the family of Officer Paul Tracey a charitable gift of money to help them purchase food or pay bills. These families need this time to grieve instead of stressing over their financial loss. Officer Tracey left behind a wife and 2 children.

Rest in peace, Officer Tracey, your service and sacrifice will not be forgotten.

Donation Summary: Sergeant Michael Abbate

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 16:39:04 GMT

The Fallen Officer:

Sergeant Michael Abbate, 37, and Trooper Alberto Felix, 54, were struck and killed by an impaired driver off Interstate 15 near D Street in Las Vegas. Both had stopped to check on a driver who appeared to be sleeping in his car. Another vehicle struck them and fled the scene. One officer died at the scene and the other at the hospital.

The Circumstance:

Abbate was killed along with his partner Trooper Alberto Felix early on Nov. 30 after they stopped to help a parked motorist on the side of Interstate 15 near D Street and a man drove into both of them and fled the scene.

Hours later, the Metropolitan Police Department arrested Jemarcus Williams, 46, who is charged with two counts each of DUI, failing to stop at the scene of a crash, reckless driving resulting in death, and misdemeanor counts of speeding, failing to properly approach a traffic incident and failing to decrease speed.

"I wanted to get here early," Benjamin Soroudi said. "You've got all the sights and the sounds. Everybody is here to support. Seeing the traffic signs on the freeway that support Sgt. Abbate, that's awesome."

Soroudi said he and Sgt. Abbate met around 2005 when they were in the Phi Delta Theta fraternity at UNLV. He said Sgt. Abbate always made him and others laugh.

"He was always so funny," Soroudi said. "He made everybody happy, and he was just a great guy to be around."

"Everyone should show their support for him," Carl Lindsey, who did not know Sgt. Abbate but attended the funeral with his wife said. "I have to show support with my wife and to my son, who is a Nevada Highway Patrol Trooper, that the community and his family has his support, and that we will always be there for him and his partners."

Mission Accomplished:

Upon hearing about the horrific tragedy of Trooper Alberto Felix and Sgt Michael Abbate, Give Blue Hope reached out to the Nevada Department of Public Safety.

After speaking with the Nevada Department of Safety spokesperson, and getting information regarding the incident, Give Blue Hope was able to provide a charitable gift of money to the wife and family of Trooper Alberto Felix.

Rest in peace, Sgt Abbate, your service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Donation Summary: Trooper Alberto Felix

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 16:29:03 GMT

The Fallen Officer:

Trooper Alberto Felix, 54, and Sergeant Michael Abbate, 37, were struck and killed by an impaired driver off Interstate 15 near D Street in Las Vegas. Both had stopped to check on a driver who appeared to be sleeping in his car. Another vehicle struck them and fled the scene. One officer died at the scene and the other at the hospital. The subject was apprehended six hours later.

The Circumstance:

Felix, who became a trooper at age 50 after serving in the Air Force, was killed along with his partner Sgt. Michael Abbate, 37, early on Nov. 30 after they stopped to help a parked motorist on the side of Interstate 15 near D Street and a man drove into both of them and fled the scene.

George Togliatti, director of the state Department of Public Safety, which oversees the state police, said that Felix’s “final act of courage serves as a reminder to our law enforcement brothers and sisters that we will always stand in harm’s way to protect others.”

Trooper Martin Moran recalled meeting Felix when they were both cadets in 2019 and Felix had only recently ended his Air Force career.

“Many of us having little to no law enforcement or military experience had no clue what we were in for,” Moran said. “But Alberto did. Like an old school father he would patiently and quietly watch as many of us would fumble, only to ever so gently push us in the right direction, but at the same time letting us figure out the issue for ourselves.

“He was a selfless and humble leader who many of us came to admire and even became unofficial children of,” Moran said.

Mission Accomplished:

Upon hearing about the horrific tragedy of Trooper Alberto Felix and Sgt Michael Abbate, Give Blue Hope reached out to the Nevada Department of Public Safety. After speaking with the Nevada Department of Safety spokesperson, and getting information regarding the incident, Give Blue Hope was able to provide a charitable gift of money to the wife and family of Trooper Alberto Felix.

Rest in peace, Trooper Felix, your service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Donation Summary: Officer Jorge Pastore

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 19:05:41 GMT

The Fallen Officer:

38-year-old Jorge Pastore was a Police Officer for the Austin Police Department in Texas. He was shot and killed during a hostage barricade.

The Circumstance:

On November 11, 2023, the Austin Police Department responded to a domestic violence call in South Austin. Hostages were barricaded inside a home, and only one of them was able to escape.

Patrol officers had initially responded to the residence for a domestic violence call involving a stabbing shortly before 3:00 am. Arriving officers located an injured victim outside of the home and learned there were two more injured victims inside. As the officers attempted to enter the home to rescue the victims, the subject inside opened fire, causing the officers to retreat.

The agency's SWAT team arrived at the scene and attempted a hostage rescue at about 4:30 am. The subject opened fire on the SWAT team, fatally wounding Officer Pastore and wounding a second officer. The officers returned fire, killing him. 

"He died giving the ultimate sacrifice, trying to save other people, and he has a legacy here that everyone is trying to honor and remember," said Michael Bullock, the President of the Austin Police Association.

"There's no more noble way that anyone can make the ultimate sacrifice in ways than what Jorge did," said Bullock. 

Before joining APD in 2019, Pastore worked as a firefighter, EMT, and lieutenant. Later, he worked on APD's Honor Guard, Counter Assault Strike Team, Special Response Team, and SWAT Gold Team.

In total, four people died that night, including two hostages and the shooter. Pastore is remembered for his bravery and commitment to serving and protecting. 

Mission Accomplished:

Upon finding out about the tragic incident and loss of Officer Jorge Pastore, Give Blue Hope reached out to the Austin, Texas Police Department. DeBerg spoke with the Public Information Officer regarding Give Blue Hope’s mission and that Give Blue Hope was wanting to send a charitable gift of money to the immediate family.

In December of 2023, Give Blue Hope sent the wife and two sons of Jorge Pastore a charitable gift of money to help them with immediate expenses and groceries.

These families deserve this time to grieve instead of stressing about their immediate lack of income to help with their immediate bills. Give Blue Hope’s mission is to help bridge the financial gap, and we need your assistance.

God speed,

Blessings from Give Blue Hope

Donation Summary: Deputy Sheriff Ryan Clinkunbroomer

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 21:28:06 GMT

The Fallen Officer:

30-year-old Ryan Clinkunbroomer was a Deputy Sheriff for the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department in California. He was shot and killed while sitting in his patrol vehicle at a red light less than a block away from the police station.

The Circumstance:

On September 16, 2023, Kevin Eduardo Cataneo Salazar allegedly followed Clinkunbroomer just before 6 p.m. as he left the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Palmdale Station while on duty, to the intersection on Sierra Highway, less than one block away from the station.

Salazar allegedly ambushed and fatally shot Clinkunbroomer from the driver seat of his own vehicle then sped away. A good Samaritan stopped and found the deputy wounded inside of his SUV, then ran a short distance to the Palmdale Station to seek help. Responding deputies rushed Clinkunbroomer to a nearby hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

Law enforcement officials sought assistance from the public in their exhaustive efforts to find the individual responsible for murdering Clinkunbroomer. After an intensive manhunt and a four-hour standoff, Salazar was found and arrested around 5 a.m. on September 18 at his Palmdale residence.

“We are devastated by the brutal murder of Deputy Ryan Clinkunbroomer and share in the grief with his family, partners, and community as we try to grapple with this tragedy,” said Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna.

“Deputy Clinkunbroomer was in uniform, stopped at a red light in his patrol vehicle like thousands of other law enforcement officers and deputies do every day when he tragically lost his life while serving his community. Deputy Clinkunbroomer embodied a legacy of service that was instilled in him through several generations. Our detectives and personnel worked relentlessly for thirty-six hours to locate and arrest the suspect responsible for Ryan’s murder and we support the charges that were filed today. We expect the maximum punishment available under the law for the murder of Deputy Ryan Clinkunbroomer.”

Mission Accomplished:

On September 22, 2023, Give Blue Hope called the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Palmdale Station. Curtis spoke with the Human Resource Officer and passed on the condolences from everyone at Give Blue Hope.

On September 22, 2023, Give Blue Hope sent a check to the fiancé’ and family of Deputy Ryan Clinkunbroomer. The charitable gift of money can be used for personal expenses or whatever the recipients' needs are.

Give Blue Hope will never forget Deputy Clinkunbroomer. God speed.

Resepectfully,

Give Blue Hope

Donation Summary: Officer Kevin Cram

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 18:51:26 GMT

The Fallen Officer:

33-year-old Kevin Cram was a police officer for the Algona Police Department in Algona, Iowa.

He was shot and killed while attempting to arrest a man with an active arrest warrant for harassment.

The Circumstance:

On September 13th, 2023, Cram was killed at about 8 pm when he told 43-year-old Kyle Ricke he was going to be arrested. Ricke allegedly shot Cram with a handgun; autopsy photos presented during the trial showed that Officer Cram was shot eight times.

Cram was on patrol Sept. 13, 2023, when he learned of an arrest warrant for Kyle Ricke on a charge of harassment. The officer saw Ricke and told him he would be arrested. That’s when Ricke shot him, according to the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation. Cram had been with Algona PD since 2015. He was 33.

A jury in Dickinson County took about an hour in July to convict Ricke of first-degree murder. The mandatory sentence in Iowa is life behind bars without parole.

"After he was on the ground, defenseless, you put three more bullets in his back. That is the very definition of a yellow-back shooting coward, and that is you. Even after that act of cowardice was done, you got in your pickup and ran away," said Kevin Cram's father, Mark, at sentencing.

"When they had his autopsy pictures up, you were staring at the floor. You put eight bullets in him, but you weren't able to even look at the damage you caused. Those pictures are forever in our memories. Your name is attached to 46 court records in one capacity or another. At the time you killed Kevin, you were 43 years old. Obviously, you didn't learn from your mistakes like a normal person does.”

Mission Accomplished:

Give Blue Hope was alerted to the incident the day that it occurred. President Curtis DeBerg reached out to the Algona Police Department.

Curtis explained to the Algona Police Department Human Resource Officer that Give Blue Hope exists and was here to help the family during the time of loss.

Curtis explained that the charitable gift of money came from donations nationwide. Because of these wonderful donations Give Blue Hope is able to provide a charitable gift to them. The charitable gift could be spent on food, paying immediate bills or even a mortgage payment, if that's what was needed at the time. The charitable gift does not need to be paid back

Give Blue Hope President Curtis DeBerg issued a check to the family of Officer Kevin Cram in an expedited fashion to help the family as soon as possible.

Donation Summary: Officer Jake Wallin

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 17:36:41 GMT

The Fallen Officer:

23-year-old Jake Wallin was a police officer for the Fargo Police Department in Fargo, Minnesota. He was shot and killed when responding to a traffic accident in the area of 9th Avenue South and 25th Street South which ultimately turned violent.

The Circumstance:

Wallin was killed when a man armed with 1,800 rounds of ammunition, multiple guns and explosives ambushed officers responding to a routine traffic crash. Two other officers and a civilian were wounded before a fourth officer returned fire, killing gunman Mohamad Barakat.

“He served his country, came back here and wanted nothing more but to serve in a position with purpose and meaning — his exact words — and he did that,” Fargo Police Chief David Zibolski said.

“His final act of valor was to selflessly face the shooter and attempt to neutralize him to save others,” Zibolski said. “His actions were valorous and exemplify the highest standards of the policing profession.”

Evidence suggests instead that Barakat came upon the crash by “happenstance” and his ensuing ambush was a diversion from his much bigger intended target, Wrigley said.

Mission Accomplished:

GBH was alerted to the incident the day that it occurred. President Curtis DeBerg reached out to the Fargo, North Dakota Police Department.

Curtis shared the mission with the Fargo Police Departments Resource Officer and advised them that Give Blue Hope would like to send a charitable gift of money to the fiancé of Officer Wallin.

It is moments like these that the families need to know that communities across the nation are supporting them in their darkest hours.

Because of the generous donations of the people that support our Law Enforcement and First Responders, we can provide a small gift of money to help them pay immediate bills or buy food until they receive a death benefit from their respective departments.

Donation Summary: Meet the Gout Family

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 15:29:06 GMT

The Fallen Officer:

23-year-old Gom Gout was a security guard at Moe and Curly's Pub. He was shot and killed while trying to break up a fight in May 2023 near 10th and Capitol streets in the Capitol District in Omaha, NE.

The Circumstance:

23-year-old Gout was working his part-time security guard job Sunday morning in Omaha’s Capitol District when a fight broke out among multiple women.

“He came out to break it up. He did that. And then we allege that after that was all over with, everybody was separated, that the defendant pulled a gun out of her purse, held it out. He approached with his hands up, saying ‘C’mon. Let’s just settle down.’ And she shot him,” said Douglas County Attorney Don Kleine.

Mission Accomplished:

GBH was alerted to the incident the day that it occurred. President Curtis DeBerg reached out to the family and contacted Gom’s brother, Sol Gout.

Curtis explained to Sol that GBH exists and was here to help his family during the time of loss. From there, Curtis met with the family at their home in Omaha and delivered a check in-person.

GBH President Curtis DeBerg issued a check to the Gout family in an expedited fashion to help the family as soon as possible.