Washington – This week we observe National Police Week, an opportunity to express our gratitude to the nation’s and Wisconsin’s fallen law enforcement officers.   These heroes made the ultimate sacrifice to uphold our laws and protect citizens. This year we pay special tribute to Wisconsin State Trooper Trevor Casper of Fond du Lac, whose end of watch occurred on March 24 in a shootout with a murder and robbery suspect. Senator Ron Johnson made these remarks:

“It’s been said that there’s no way to tell how many lives Trevor saved by finishing the job that he needed to take care of that day.  We take time today to honor his devotion to duty and willingness to sacrifice. 

“Let us also remember Polk County Sheriff’s Deputy Michael Seversen.  Deputy Seversen was shot and paralyzed during the investigation of a homicide.  Through rehabilitation, he relearned how to breathe, but he was confined to a wheelchair.  Deputy Seversen died of complications related to his paralysis on April 14, 2014.  His name will be added to the Wisconsin Law Enforcement Memorial.

“Law enforcement officers have chosen a noble profession, and those who serve represent the very best of society.  They willingly go to work knowing that, during the course of their work, they may be placed in harm’s way, as shown by Trooper Casper and Deputy Seversen. 

“I am extremely grateful for law enforcement professionals who work every day to protect us.  On behalf of the residents of Wisconsin, I’d like to thank them for their service.  We will never forget those men and women who gave their lives to keep us safe.  May God continue to watch over the fallen officers and those they left behind, their families, and all whose lives they touched.” 

###