New Law Enforcement Memorial to honor 126 Utah officers who have given their lives in a line of duty was dedicated on September 6, 2008.
After a long national search and tough competition Lena Toritch’s design was chosen as the best representation of both historical and allegoric significance of the Memorial. The design includes three bronze figurative sculptures—Utah Highway Patrol trooper, female K-9 officer and a portrait of pioneer and Salt Lake County Deputy Rodney Badger, Utah’s first law enforcement to die in 1853.
These larger than life bronzes show appreciation and reverence for the enormous sacrifice that peace officers have made throughout Utah’s history, including the ultimate sacrifice: giving their life.
The names of 126 police officers currently reside on the memorial in the form of bronze name plaques, each sponsored by a $1,000 contribution from families, friends and comrades. As it is throughout the memorial, the copper used to make the bronze was donated by Kennecott Utah Copper.
Bookstands located at either entrance to the memorial will eventually contain information regarding the construction of the memorial, contributors, as well as stories and photographs of the fallen.
The memorial will provide a place of solace for family and friends of fallen officers, a place of comfort and reflection.
