Increase in the Number of Women Police Officers Deaths in 2008

As compared to 2007, the number of police officers who died in the line of duty in 2008 was less but there was an increase in the number of women cops who died while performing their duties.

Statistics show that the total number of police officers who died in the line of duty was 140, compared to 181 in 2007. Gunfire deaths were 68 in 2007 but in 2008 it dropped to 35. Traffic related deaths also declined. 71 officers were killed in 2008 year compared to 81 in 2007. 61 percent of the traffic deaths took place due to accidents and 39 percent resulted from criminal encounters.

However, 2008 was not good for women cops as 15 women police officers died compared to 6 in 2007. The reason behind the increase is women police officers taking up more dangerous tasks, like their male counterparts.

The chairman of Memorial Fund, Craig Floyd said in an interview that the police department is getting better equipped and are being well trained to fight back in life threatening situations.

More than 70 percent of policemen use bullet proof vests. The states with the most deaths are Texas where 14 police officers died, followed by California with 12 deaths.

Safety measures are getting implemented to further train and equip the police force for their self protection. Special trainings are being given for high speed and defensive driving techniques to avoid accidents.

Fort Lauderdale criminal defense attorney said "My deep condolence to the friends and families of the police officers who died in the line of duty. Their deaths have given lives to so many people in the United States." West Palm Beach personal injury lawyer said "The women cops’ deaths have increased this year. Special attention needs to be given to train them well before giving them dangerous tasks."