A nationally recognized commentator on issues related to law enforcement, Demetrick Pennie serves as a Dallas police sergeant. He is also the president of the Dallas Fallen Officer Foundation and the executive director of the Texas Fallen Officer Foundation. In these roles, Demetrick Pennie advocates for law enforcement and for the families of officers killed in the line of duty. Last July, members of the Dallas community had the opportunity to participate in several events for five officers who were killed in an ambush during a peaceful protest.
On July 7, 2016, approximately 800 people gathered in the El Centro College area of Dallas to protest the killings of Alton Sterling and Philando Castile, shot by police in incidents in other states. Some 100 police officers were assigned to provide security at the otherwise peaceful event. In an ambush-style shooting, the officers - Lorne Ahrens, Patrick Zamarripa, Michael Krol, Michael Smith, all of the Dallas Police Department, and DART officer Brent Thompson - were killed. To mark the second anniversary of the killings, several events were held.
-The Dallas Police Department paid tribute to the fallen officers with a service of prayer and song. Various faith leaders from the community participated in the event. It concluded with a moment of silence and the release of white balloons in memory of the victims.
-Over 300 motorcyclists participated in a ride to remember the police officers. All proceeds were donated to the families of fallen officers.
-The Run for the Blue was a 5K event that also supported the families of those who have died in the line of duty.
Plans are in place to erect a monument to the fallen officers outside the Dallas Police Department headquarters.
