The National Fraternal Order of Police reports that at the end of August, there have been 234 officers shot so far in 2022. That is a 6% increase in numbers of officers shot from 2021 year-to-date (YTD) and a 7% increase over 2020 YTD. Of those shot this year, 45 were killed by gunfire

There have been 58 ambush-style attacks on law enforcement officers this year that have resulted in 86 officers shot, 22 of whom were killed.

“Make no mistake—we are experiencing a real crisis with the level of violence directed at law enforcement officers. This past year has been one of the most dangerous years for law enforcement in recent history due to the increase of violence directed toward law enforcement officers, the nationwide crime crisis, and the COVID-19 pandemic,” says National FOP President Patrick Yoes. “Frankly, it is unlike anything I’ve seen in my 36 years of law enforcement. Last year we saw more officers shot in the line of duty than any other since the National Fraternal Order of Police began recording this data in late 2015.

“Many will often look at this data and just see numbers. We must remember that they represent heroes—fathers, mothers, sons, and daughters. Thankfully, had it not been for the countless dramatic improvements in medical trauma science and anti-ballistic technology, the lethality of these attacks would be much greater,” Yoes continues.

“I call on Americans in every community across the country to join us in taking a stand—to say, ‘enough is enough!’ Truthfully, this violence is beyond unacceptable; it’s a stain on our society, and it must end. It is incumbent upon our elected officials and community leaders to stand up, support our heroes, and speak out against the violence against law enforcement officers.”