Law enforcement group battles with county leadership regarding a recent statement

{Contributed Photo}

Statement from the Davidson County Fraternal Order of Police Regarding Commissioner Chairman Todd Yates Comments on Job Risk

The Davidson County Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) wishes to address recent comments made by County Commissioner Chairman Todd Yates comparing his previous work in roadway construction to the dangers faced by law enforcement officers.

We fully acknowledge the inherent risks that come with construction work—particularly those working in active roadway zones. Construction workers perform critical, often hazardous tasks that help keep our infrastructure functioning. In 2022, 94 construction workers tragically lost their lives in work zone incidents across the nation, most due to accidental circumstances such as being struck by vehicles or machinery.

However, it is important to understand the fundamental difference between occupational hazard and targeted violence.

In 2024 alone, 147 law enforcement officers in the United States died in the line of duty. These include:

52 officers killed by gunfire, many in ambushes, during domestic disturbances, or while serving warrants.

46 officers lost to traffic-related incidents, including being struck by vehicles and crashes while in pursuit or patrol.

49 others, who died from causes including fatal assaults, medical events in the line of duty, and acts of violence such as stabbings and beatings.

Unlike most workplace fatalities, law enforcement officers face the persistent and growing threat of being intentionally targeted simply for wearing the badge. Officers do not just face danger—they confront people intending to do them harm, often while protecting the very communities they serve.

We urge our County leaders to speak carefully and respectfully when making public comparisons about risk, especially when discussing the lives and sacrifices of officers who put themselves between the public and danger every single day. Public service comes in many forms—but not all service carries the same burden of being both protector and target.

We stand in solidarity with all professions that face danger on the job. But we also stand firmly in the truth: there is no comparison to the uniquely volatile, violent, and unpredictable nature of law enforcement work.

The Davidson County FOP remains committed to honoring the sacrifice of our fallen brothers and sisters and to advocating for the respect and understanding that law enforcement officers deserve.

If you have questions about this statement or would like to speak with a representative, please contact the Davidson County Fraternal Order of Police at ncfop97@gmail.com.

Respectfully,

Lodge 97 Executive Board

Davidson County Fraternal Order of Police