April Newsletter

April was a month filled with reflection of the Officers we have lost in the past and gratitude for those who currently serve. Unfortunately, we lost Franklin County Sheriff Office's K9 Major in the Line of Duty.

On April 1st our Chaplain Angela Pleasants attended Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department's 15th Anniversary Candlelight Vigil. This was held at the Police Memorial Statue across CMPD's headquarters in honor of Officers Sean Clark and Jeff Shelton who were shot and killed after responding to a disturbance call on April 1st, 2007.

On April 4th, several Knightdale Officers were commended by the Town Manager of Knightdale after their swift action pursuant to an active shooter at the Spring Special Olympics Carnival. The Officers present who ran towards the gunfire to protect the attendees of the Carnival were Lt. Steve Williams, Lt. Ron Fullerton, Sgt. Doug Crough, and Officers Ricky Todd, Rod Glahn, Alyssa Lennon, and Jordan Francis. Incidents like this should remind the public of the importance of our public safety officers and their potential to navigate potentially life-threatening situations to protect us. Thank you Knightdale PD for your service and bravery!

On April 18th our Founder and CEO, Lindsay LiCausi, attended the memorial service for Franklin County K9 Major, killed in the line of duty on April 10th. K9 Major was tragically shot and killed while attempting to apprehend a dangerous armed robbery suspect who was hiding underneath a residence. A multiple agency escort and a six-dog salute honored Major in a procession from the Franklin County Sheriff's Office to Louisburg High School, where the ceremony took place. Condolences were given personally by LiCausi to K9 Handler Lariviere and Sheriff Kent Winstead on behalf of the organization. Again, we would like to extend our thoughts and prayers to the Franklin County Sheriff's Office and our appreciation to K9 Major for his selfless act of bravery and dedication in service in protecting his handler, the CRT team, and our community.

On April 25th members of Back The Blue NC provided the wife, children and extended family of fallen Trooper John Horton with a monetary donation of $92,000 that was raised from sales and fundraisers that have taken place since Horton's tragic death. Trooper Horton was struck and killed by a patrol vehicle while conducting a traffic stop in Rutherford County on Jan. 3, 2022. In addition to the check, the organization presented two wooden plaques, one to the Horton family and one to the district office where Horton was stationed.

Please continue to keep the Horton family in your thoughts and prayers during their time of loss.

Lastly, Back The Blue NC proudly partnered with Kendra Scott jewelry for a statewide fundraiser in which 20% of all online and in-store proceeds benefitted the organization. Thank you to everybody who shopped with us in-store or online to help continue our mission of supporting the children and families of Officers killed in the line of duty. Over $2,300 was raised to help us continue "Giving back to those who are willing to give their all."

If you would like to contribute, please visit our 10-33 Assistance Program page to subscribe as a donor.