GOSHEN—The killing of five police officers during a civil protest last week took place in Dallas, but it was felt all around the country, and Orange County was no exception.
At a vigil for the fallen officers organized by the sheriff’s office on July 12, several in law enforcement said they felt the event was a symbol of the times.
“It’s very, very unsettling,” said former Town of Newburgh police officer Mark Merring, who retired 16 years ago. “We were once a very ’together' community back [when I was an officer] and now, most of the guys I talk to today, they’re kind of reluctant to do their job.”
“You gotta make sure you keep your eyes in the back of your head now,” said State Trooper Rob Saracelli. “More now than ever.”
“Officers are being targeted today,” said Port Jervis Police Chief William Worden during the ceremony. “Sadly to date, we have lost 61 of our brothers and sisters this year alone in the line of duty.”
