09/10/2026
From the desk of Jason Hicks:
First, it is with a heavy heart that I make this post. You see, what many don’t recognize is the weight that accompanies the badge. Most men and women enter law enforcement because they feel compelled to help make their community a better, safer place. However, what is not taught at the academy or in school is the emotional side of carrying that badge. There is a heaviness. Every officer sees way more than their share of traumatic events. Every officer faces life or death daily - am I going to make it home? - is a common question asked by our officers as they start their shift. They are lied to, lied about, and disparaged by ungrateful people on a daily basis. The emotional toll taken on my brothers and sisters in blue during their careers is something no one understands, unless you’ve been there. Or, unless you’re married to it or a child of it.
The number of officers walking away today is deeply concerning. The experience level is dropping and even the younger officers are walking away. Why? Because of the toll the job takes on them. Because of the emotional weight of not knowing whether they’re going to go home. Because of the concern that they might make a mistake and become the ridicule of a community. No one wants to be rejected and when you put your life on the line for the very people who spit on you the moment you make a mistake causes one to question his/her purpose. It’s very difficult to remain in an occupation where it feels like the majority simply doesn’t care and will turn on you quicker than you can snap your fingers.
Tonight, and in the coming days, please find someone serving in law enforcement, whether it’s the patrol officer, an investigator, a probation officer, deputy, prosecutor, or any other position within the law enforcement community and say, “thank you!” It just might mean the world to that one person. It might just be the word that keeps them going. It might just be the word that makes someone understand that they are appreciated and needed. Our world needs more of this and less of the negative. Many who are so critical of law enforcement would be the last to want a camera following them everywhere they go and being questioned about everything they do. A little grace goes a long way. A little kindness would make this world a much better place.
To the Duncan Police Department, my heart is broken for your loss and I will continue, and am, praying for each of you as we all try to pick up the pieces and serve our community. We are better together!
