TOPEKA (KSNT) – Local law enforcement is kicking off a fundraising campaign to build a new monument to fallen officers in Topeka this year.
City of Topeka spokesman Dan Garrett said in a press release the Topeka Police Department (TPD) and Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office are teaming up to host a fundraiser campaign aimed at the construction of a new Fallen Officer Memorial at the Topeka Law Enforcement Center. The previous memorial was heavily damaged after a man crashed into it in 2022.
“Our officers dedicate their lives daily to serve and protect. When one is lost, the impact ripples through families, fellow officers, and the entire community,” said TPD Chief Chris Vallejo. “This memorial will stand as a permanent reminder of their sacrifice and our collective commitment to honor their memory. We invite residents, businesses, and organizations to join us in this effort.”
Garrett said the new memorial will serve as a permanent tribute to fallen officers and honor their legacy. The campaign aims to raise $900,000 by October this year to cover the cost of the project with construction set to start in early 2026.
“I’ve lost six friends in this profession,” said Shawnee County Sheriff Brian Hill. “I’ve worn the uniform when the call ended in gunfire. The fallen officer memorial represents those who never came home — and reminds the rest of us why we keep showing up. It must stand again for them, and for the living who continue to answer the call.”
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You can help with this fundraiser by dropping off cash or checks at the Law Enforcement Center in Topeka which is located at 320 South Kansas Avenue. Write “Memorial” in the memo line and make checks payable to the Fraternal Order of Police.
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