Thomas,
This November 10, 2022, you left us in tragic conditions, and you, Jason, who witnessed this tragic scene, I dare not imagine what must be going through your head.
Your departure is the result of an increase in violence against our profession after we had sounded the alarm several times.
Thomas, you got involved in the police, like all of us, out of conviction, because we remain convinced that our job, that our daily actions are there to help, listen to and guide citizens. Yes, we are not going to hide it, our job is sometimes painful and, in some cases, deadly.
But despite this, we still retain the will to serve, protect and defend the values of democracy. But today, who protects us, the police? Who protected Thomas and Jason?
Some will say: “you chose this job and you are paid for it, why complain?”. We made this choice in our soul and conscience, but we then knew the certainty of being protected and supported in our work by those whose responsibilities are engaged.
Thomas was a policeman, but also a son, a brother, a companion. He had dreams and wishes to realize, but these will not come true because this Thursday, November 10, time has stopped for him. Another decided otherwise.
It is high time that our message is heard by our leaders and taken into consideration. It is the expression of a pain, that of the police: YOUR POLICE.
Jason, you showed courage and bravery in the face of a situation none of us would want to face.
Thomas, we, your friends, your colleagues, will never forget you for your dedication, your empathy and for all that you represent.
I wish you a good trip my friend.
PS: Thank you to our zone manager Mr. Slosse, as well as to our management of COM5 (police station 5, editor’s note) on which Thomas depended, who were exemplary towards each of the police officers who, in their career, suffered police violence. Thank you.