by David Chapman
Staff Writer
For the first time in five years, a new name was placed on the wall – Officer Scott Bell, who died Oct. 12, 2007 after being hit by a drunk driver following a dispatch.
“We were so fortunate it wasn’t more,” said Sheriff John Rutherford, during Wednesday’s memorial to mark officers killed in the line of duty. “But it’s important to remember all of the officers who have given their lives while serving Jacksonville and deliver the message to their survivors that the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office will always be there.”
Bell’s death marked the 59th in JSO’s history and all 59 were part of a roll call during the ceremony with various officers proclaiming “absent” in response.
“They really were and are family,” said Rutherford. “Many times they were nurtured and raised right here with us and each one will be sorely missed. But today is about celebrating their lives.”