Police Suicides: Awareness, Compassion, Action
It was NYPD Officer Colin Patrick Rossiter, 22
years-old, who tragically lost his life to suicide on March 2, 2023.
According to a social media post, Colin was involved in a
critical incident shortly after his NYPD career began. [i]
Aside from his NYPD vocation, Colin was a former star for
the Monsignor Farrell Hockey Team and loved the New Jersey Devils.
Colin was known as someone with a heart of gold, always ready to help others.
Colin Patrick Rossiter is the inspiration for this article. He was fully dedicated
to protecting and serving the people of New York City as an NYPD officer.
Let us pray for his loved ones,
and dedicate ourselves to suicide prevention to honor him and all who have
gone too soon.
Inside the Law
Enforcement Pressure Cooker
The article, about the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department, was titled “Inside the ‘Pressure Cooker’: 4 deaths in 24 hours open up
conversation about suicides by police.”
It prompted me to contact law enforcement colleagues to
organize a venue where I could share remarks on policing including the suicide issue.
An event was made possible by the collaboration of the U.S. Marshall for the Southern District of New York, the NYPD Southern California Liaison, the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department and the Orange County Sheriff’s Office.
Representatives from fifteen different local, state, county, and federal law enforcement agencies attended their monthly event for Orange County Intelligence Assessment Center meeting, and I was the guest speaker.
My remarks titled 21st Century Policing: Safeguarding
Our Communities occurred at the Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, California.
The heart of my message was encouragement for law
enforcement’s safety, morale, and emotional survival.
Police Suicides: Eyes
Wide Open
Compounding the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department tragedies, these are additional heart wrenching stories on police suicides nationwide:
·
Leaders push for mental health resources after
four Suffolk County [Long Island, New York] police officers die by suicide in four weeks
·
About 184 law enforcement officers die by
suicide each year: Report
·
Richard Berdnick, Passaic County [New Jersey] Sheriff,
fatally shoots himself in restaurant
·
DOJ finds police officer’s suicide after Jan. 6
attack was death in the line of duty
·
Head of Miami police shoots himself on busy
highway after domestic dispute
·
Rookie off-duty NYPD cop dies by suicide:
Sources
·
‘Really Concerned’: Five suicides in seven
months, San Antonio Police Department says
· Deputy [Louisiana] who died by suicide left haunting videos on racist policy, division: ‘I’ve had enough’
· After Chicago Police Department Officer [Patricia Swank] Dies by Suicide, Family Says More Mental Health Support Needed for Officers
· Chicago police mourns the loss of a deputy chief
at police facility
· Officer suicides spur Chicago police effort to break mental health stigma
· The Police Widow Trying to Stop the NYPD Suicide
Epidemic
In Memoriam: Chicago
Police Officer Patricia “Patsy” Swank
Before we continue, let us reverently pause to honor Chicago Police Officer Patricia “Patsy” Swank (March 17, 1993 – July 2, 2022) of Chicago, IL who passed away unexpectedly from suicide.
Patsy, seen here in happier times with her young son
Scottie, was a beloved, amazing, and beautiful soul.
She served as a Chicago Police Officer for over 6 years, and was a Mother Mc Auley High School graduate.
"My Mom, My Wonder Woman, My Heart... I will LOVE and
miss you forever" - Scottie
“She will always be our Sunshine.” [ia]
According to current CDC statistics, suicide
is responsible for 48,183 deaths, about one death every 11 minutes.
The number of people who consider, or attempt suicide
is even higher. An estimated 12.3 million American adults seriously thought
about suicide, 3.5 million planned a suicide attempt, and 1.7 million attempted
suicide.
“Suicide affects people of all ages. Suicide was among the
top 9 leading causes of death for people ages 10-64. Suicide was the second
leading cause of death for people ages 10-14 and 20-34.” [ii]
“Suicide and suicide attempts cause serious emotional,
physical, and economic impacts. People who attempt suicide and survive may
experience serious injuries that can have long-term effects on their health.
They may also experience depression and other mental health concerns.
“Suicide and suicide attempts affect the health and
well-being of friends, loved ones, co-workers, and the community. When people die
by suicide, their surviving family and friends may experience prolonged grief,
shock, anger, guilt, symptoms of depression or anxiety, and even thoughts of
suicide themselves.” [iii]
“Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States…Suicidal thoughts and behaviors affect persons of all ages, leading to lasting effects on families, friends, workplaces, and communities. Law enforcement professionals are not immune to this serious public health problem. Studies suggest that suicide rates are particularly high among officers and others in public safety occupations. Although the exact number of officers who die by suicide each year is not currently known, existing research suggests that officers may be more likely to die by suicide than in the line of duty. [iiia]
Police Suicide:
Danger Behind the Badge
“Suicide among law enforcement officers is a complex issue
and there are many individual and agency factors which can contribute to
suicide risk. As compared to the general public, there is an overall higher
likelihood of suicide risk and suicidal behaviors among law enforcement
personnel. Police officers have elevated rates of suicide, substance misuse,
and divorce compared to other professions. Risk factors for suicide also
include mental health challenges, social isolation, exposure to trauma, and
chronic disease and disability. Protective factors include social
connectedness, problem-solving skills, access to mental health care, and
reasons for living (such as children). [iv]
Additionally, the Office of Community Oriented Policing
Services (COPS), a component of the U.S. Department of Justice dedicated to
advancing community policing, encourages everyone to take action to prevent law
enforcement suicides.
In an edition of their Community Policing Dispatch
newsletter, COPS states the following:
“Care for officer's mental and emotional health should be on
par with that for their safety and physical health. In order for prevention
efforts to be successful, agencies must also address cultural and environmental
barriers to prevention at all levels, e.g., the still-pervasive stigma that
discourages at-risk officers from seeking help for fear of negative peer
reactions or career ramifications; lack of comprehensive suicide prevention policies;
and insufficient training for officers or health care providers.
“There are many people who have a role to play in preventing
suicide among law enforcement officers. The attitudes and behaviors of chiefs,
supervisors, peers, health care providers, family, friends, faith leaders, and
others can all influence officers' health.”
988 Suicide &
Crisis Lifeline: Talk To Someone Now – Call 988
If you’re thinking about suicide, are worried about a friend
or loved one, or would like emotional support, the 988 Lifeline network is
available 24/7 across the United States.
The free and confidential 988 Lifeline is available for everyone.
A skilled, trained crisis worker who works at the 988
Lifeline network crisis center closest to you will answer the phone.
Know the Warning
Signs
Some warning signs may help determine if a loved one is at
risk for suicide, especially if the behavior is new, has increased, or seems
related to a painful event, loss, or change.
If you or someone you know exhibits any of these, seek help
by calling the Lifeline.
•
Talking about wanting to die or to kill
themselves
•
Looking for a way to kill themselves, like
searching online or buying a gun
•
Talking about feeling hopeless or having no
reason to live
•
Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable
pain
•
Talking about being a burden to others
•
Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
•
Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly
•
Sleeping too little or too much
•
Withdrawing or isolating themselves
•
Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
•
Extreme mood swings [v]
"As a 37-year law enforcement professional, I believe it is one of the
most challenging professions.
"However, the profession appears to have more challenges now than ever.
"We are leaders and mentors and must respond accordingly. We must understand our overall mission is
public safety. Yet, inseparable to this mission is supporting the men and women
who protect and serve.
"Our support must be more than formal recognitions, promotions, and
cordial memos. It must be ongoing interactions expressing respect, appreciation,
and encouragement.
"We are disproportionately plagued with suicides. As leaders, ongoing formal
training on properly responding to warning signs is imperative. We must protect the protectors.
"We must continually enhance our skills to support anyone in
crisis. When people are struggling, and
perhaps unable to express their concerns, we must provide leadership.
"Concerns for all we serve must be courageously converted into action.
For example, we may feel that exploring someone considering self-harm may make
them uncomfortable. Perhaps it will be considered intrusive, or unwelcomed. Conversely,
our concern may offer the support that someone desperately needs for emotional
survival.
"Our profession is challenging but honorable. Let us continue with fortitude, confidence, and fidelity."
Chief Joe Fox, NYPD Chief retd.
Know the Risk Factors
Risk factors are characteristics that make it more likely
that someone will consider, attempt, or die by suicide. They can't cause or
predict a suicide attempt, but awareness is essential.
•
Mental disorders, particularly mood disorders,
schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, and certain personality disorders
•
Alcohol and other substance use disorders
•
Hopelessness
•
Impulsive and/or aggressive tendencies
•
History of trauma or abuse
•
Major physical illnesses
•
Previous suicide attempt(s)
•
Family history of suicide
•
Job or financial loss
•
Loss of relationship(s)
•
Easy access to lethal means
•
Local clusters of suicide
•
Lack of social support and sense of isolation
•
Stigma associated with asking for help
•
Lack of healthcare, especially mental health and
substance abuse treatment
•
Cultural and religious beliefs, such as the
belief that suicide is a noble resolution of a personal dilemma
•
Exposure to others who have died by suicide (in
real life or via the media and Internet) [vi]
When Talking to a Suicidal Person
Although essential to get professional assistance as
immediately as possible, here are some do’s when communicating with someone
suicidal, especially if you’re the first point of contact:
· Be yourself. Let the person know you care, that
they are not alone. Finding the right words are not nearly as important as
showing your concern.
· Listen. Let your friend or loved one vent and
unload their feelings. No matter how negative the conversation seems, the fact
that it is taking place is a positive sign.
· Be sympathetic and non-judgmental. The suicidal
person is doing the right thing by talking about their feelings, no matter how
difficult it may be to hear.
· Offer hope. Reassure your loved one that help is
available and that the suicidal feelings are temporary. Let the person know
that their life is important to you.
· Take the person seriously. If a suicidal person says things like, “I’m so depressed, I can’t go on,” ask if they’re having thoughts of suicide. You’re allowing them to share their pain with you, not putting ideas in their head. [i]
· Almost everyone who attempts suicide has given some clue or warning. Don’t ignore even indirect references to death or suicide. Statements like “You’ll be sorry when I’m gone,” “I can’t see any way out,”—no matter how casually or jokingly said—may indicate serious suicidal feelings.
· Most suicidal people are not psychotic or insane. They are upset, grief-stricken, depressed, or despairing, but extreme distress and emotional pain are not necessarily signs of mental illness.
· Even a very severely depressed person has mixed feelings about death, fluctuating between wanting to live and wanting to die. Rather than wanting death, they just want the pain to stop—and the impulse to end their life does not last forever.
· Many people try to get help before attempting suicide. In fact, studies indicate that more than 50 percent of suicide victims had sought medical help in the six months prior to their deaths.
· You don’t give someone suicidal ideas by talking about suicide. Rather, the opposite is true. Talking openly and honestly about suicidal thoughts and feelings can help save a life. [i]
Prevent a Tragedy: See Something, Say Something
The maxim “if you see something say something” is applicable
not only to crime prevention, but to protecting the lives of all who serve, and
all experiencing emotional trauma.
We must continually have our eyes wide open to warning signs
of suicide, and the moral courage to respond.
Before concluding, some wise words from a retired police
chief colleague on officer mental health and suicide prevention:
“However all officers need to be regularly assessed as their careers
and experiences move forward.
“Some agencies order officers to attend PTSD screening for certain
incidents.
“A good start, but given the nature of the job and the amount of
negativity shown by those who hold the purse strings, screening should be at
regular intervals throughout a career.”
About the Author
Bove is recipient of the FBI Director’s Community Leadership
Award, and former confidant for players from two world champion New York Yankee
teams.
He served as spokesperson for a coalition of Virginia Tech tragedy victim’s families and authored a report on their behalf.
Bove has conducted extensive leadership presentations
for the FBI, the United States Military Academy, law enforcement, educators,
security professionals, and students nationwide.
“We must all serve as catalysts to protect our workplaces, schools, communities, public spaces, and houses of worship. Public safety demands ethical leadership, vigilance, and collaboration. Security demands comprehensive enhancements, on-going training, effective response to warning signs, and building bridges with law enforcement, private security, and every member of the community.”
Vincent J Bove
Photos
1. NYPD Officer Colin Patrick Rossiter. (Credit: Beyond
The Badge)
2. Courtesy Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department, Norwalk Station, on X.
3. Chicago Police Officer Patricia "Patsy" Swank with her young son Scottie. (Public Domain, confirmed by Southwest Chicago Post, Greater Southwest News-Herald, Clear Ridge Reporter & NewsHound, on Apr. 3, 2024.
4. Courtesy NYPD Commissioner on X
5. Courtesy Chicago Police Department on X
6. Courtesy Los Angeles Police Department HQ on X
7. NYPD Officer Colin Rossiter (left) and Chicago Police Officer Patricia Swank. (Credit: Reawakening America LLC)
8. Vincent J. Bove (center) with Bergen County Police Chief Association colleagues, May 18, 2017. Bove served the association for 20 years (1994 - 2024) as liaison / chairperson on issues involving leadership and violence prevention. (Credit: Reawakening America LLC)
Special thanks: Chief Joe Fox, NYPD retd. for his 20+ years of friendship, and contributing to this article.
Related Coverage Articles by Vincent J. Bove:
21St Century Policing: Issues and Response
Police Suicides: Awareness, Prevention, Action
American Veteran Suicide Crisis Demands Ethical Leadership
[i] https://www.instagram.com/p/C4Av2DqOgMu/
[ia] https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/oak-lawn-il/patricia-swank-10818158
[ii]https://www.cdc.gov/suicide/facts/index.html#:~:text=Suicide%20is%20a%20serious%20public,one%20death%20every%2011%20minutes.
[iii] Ibid
[iiia] Preventing Suicide Among Law Enforcement Officers: An Issue Brief https://www.theiacp.org/sites/default/files/2020-02/_NOSI_Issue_Brief_FINAL.pdf
[iv] https://www.theiacp.org/sites/default/files/2023%2520Report%2520and%2520Recommendations%5B1%5D.pdf
introduction
[vi] Ibid
Labels: In Remembrance, Law Enforcement, Mental Health, NYPD, Policing
posted by Vincent J. Bove, CPP at 7:05 PM
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