With an up-close look at the worst behavior human beings have to offer, the life of a law enforcement official can be dark and grueling.
But worries about their well-being hit a new level with the news that four Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department employees were discovered dead in separate incidents on Monday and Tuesday.
Officials said preliminary information shows the deputies each took their own lives.
Sheriff Robert Luna told Los Angeles Magazine in a statement that his department was rocked by the deaths.
“We are stunned to learn of these deaths, and it has sent shockwaves of emotions throughout the department as we try and cope with the loss of not just one, but four beloved active and retired members of our department family," Luna said.
A 56-year-old commander was discovered dead Monday in Santa Clarita from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. Later that same day, detectives responded to the suicide of a retired 67 -year-old sergeant who had a gunshot wound to the chest. And then a third call came in for a 59-year-old retired deputy who had a gunshot wound to the chest.
Then, the following morning, "homicide detectives responded to another death of a current employee to a local hospital in the city of Pomona," Luna said.
A USA Today report found that police officers and firefighters are more likely to die by suicide than in the line of duty.
"During trying times like these it’s important for personnel regardless of rank or position to check on the well-being of other colleagues and friends. I have the deepest concern for our employee’s well-being, and we are urgently exploring avenues to reduce work stress factors to support our employees work and personal lives," Luna said in the statement.
In 2020, 116 police officers died by suicide and 113 died in the line of duty, according to researchers.
This story contains discussion of suicide. If you or someone you know may be struggling with suicidal thoughts, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255.