Press Releases

Atlanta Police Department Public Affairs 226 Peachtree Street SW • Atlanta, Georgia 30303

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 05/05/2014

 News Release

Atlanta Remembers Fallen Police Officer

Community comes together to recognize 82 Atlanta Police Officers that died in the line of duty

Tomorrow, the Atlanta Police Department, city leaders and the law enforcement community will remember Atlanta police officers that have died in the line of duty.  The 23rd Annual Atlanta Police Memorial Service honors 82 officers and will be held at the City Hall Atrium at 11:00 am.

Fortunately, no officers died in the line of duty in 2013. However, Detective Richard Williams has been added to the official roll call. In the late 1980’s, Detective Williams was shot in the back by a student. He was left paralyzed but stayed on the job as school resource officer. He served the Atlanta Police Department for 37 years and passed away in October 2011.

Dr. Barbara Lewis King, founder and lead pastor of Hillside International Truth Center is the keynote speaker. Dr. Barbara began the non-denominational, ecumenical ministry in 1971 with twelve members in her living room. Today, the Hillside International Truth Center covers nearly twelve acres with a growing congregation numbering more than 10,000 members. Dr. Barbara earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sociology from Texas Southern University. She is also a trained social worker, having earned a Master of Social Work Degree from Atlanta University.

Mr. James Cross, father of fallen officer Mark A. Cross will also participate in the program. Additional speakers include Interim City of Atlanta Chief Operating Officer Michael Geisler, Council President Ceasar Mitchell, and Councilmember CT. Martin.   

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